FOUR COUNTY
CATHOLIC Volume 28 • Number 6 • June/July 2016
norwichdiocese.org
God’’s Mercy Transforms Hearts
Serving The Counties Of Middlesex, New London, Tolland, Windham & Fishers Island, NY
“Extraordinary Gift of God’s Love.” Father Peter J. Langevin, Father Juan A. Aguirre, Father Jeffrey R. Ellis and Father Thomas P. Griffin
Ordained to the Holy Priesthood By Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich June 25, 2016 Cathedral of Saint Patrick for Service as Priests of the Diocese of Norwich
FOUR COUNTY
In this Issue: page
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“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard” _Emilit De La Cruz
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CATHOLIC norwichdiocese.org
Serving The Counties Of Middlesex, New London, Tolland, Windham a & Fishers Island, NY
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June/July 2016
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“Extraordinary Gift of Gods Love” from Bishop Micheal R. Cote’s homily at the Ordination Mass on June 25, 2016 Cover photo by Meredith Morrison
CATHOLIC FOUR COUNTY VOLUME 28 • NUMBER
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God’s Mercy Transforms Hearts
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Cote, D.D., d Michael R. Most Reveren h Bishop of Norwic June 25, 2016 Patrick Cathedral of Saint of Norwich of the Diocese Service as Priests
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Four County
Our DIOCESE
CATHOLIC THE MOST REVEREND
MICHAEL R. COTE. D.D.
BISHOP OF NORWICH
LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY A Kinder, Gentler Message My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, There continues to be so much turbulence to the ongoing political season. And sadly, we have had to endure the unspeakable violence and loss of life in Orlando just two short weeks ago. It is a painful and gravely unsettling time. How do we process the behavior we have witnessed along the campaign trail thus far, against the backdrop of a hurting world? How do we manage the personal struggle we each ultimately face to exercise our responsible and faithful citizenship? Fortunately, there is still time to work through the issues and apply the principles of our faith to the decision process we will be facing in November. We will listen, study, pray and participate in our democracy as is our moral obligation. The stakes are so high, in so many ways, regarding the sanctity, wellbeing and dignity of each human life in our great Country and beyond. Journeying toward the respective conventions in July and August, there have been some extraordinary moments -- not necessarily those receiving the
heaviest media coverage. One such moment that stands out for me, and perhaps for you too, was the final stop of John Kasich’s campaign. On a Wednesday evening the first week in May, that now seems so long ago with the waters rushing as they are, John Kasich announced the suspension of his campaign. It was a modest middle-of-theweek news occasion in a fittingly modest setting for a man who had delivered his hopeful message across 19 states and had now returned home to thank his wife and supporters. Not too much news there – a candidate who had won only one primary state. A candidate largely overshadowed by the louder more outrageous voices on the trail. Yet that evening, John Kasich gave what I found to be the best speech of all the candidates, on all the nights, in all the states of the campaign. His was a reflective speech about his journey of discovering America. He spoke of the people he met, their stories and hopes, their love of Country. Their faith. My sense was that he felt fulfilled by having delivered his message out there on the trail, regardless of the votes counted
“What if in the course of this I can change a life? I can affect a life?” John Kasich
at the end of the day. Please be reminded here that I am not a supporter of any candidate connected to either party. I am sharing my impressions with you of John Kasich because I feel he deserves having his positive message passed along to others, not for political purpose but for the value of the message on its own merit. In his words,”You see, I believe we all need to live a life a little bigger than ourselves. We need to reach out to help someone else…It’s a virtuous circle when we help someone else to rise. It opens us up to receive the things that we need in our lives.” These were words of conviction. Sincere words. A message that will still be standing long after the clever sound bites of other candidates and pundits have evaporated. John went on to share how he believes the Lord may have another purpose for him. On this larger thought, he closed out his campaign, ”You see, I have always said the Lord has a purpose for me, as He has for everyone. And as I suspend my campaign, I have renewed faith – deeper faith – that the Lord will show me the way forward, and fulfill the purpose of my life.”
For those of us fortunate to have heard his speech that night, we learned something about character and perseverance, We learned from a veteran public servant who gave everything he had to the campaign, and was victorious in delivering his message of faith, love of neighbor and Country. Thank you, John Kasich, for your dedication to focusing on the best in us. Congratulations on bringing attention to God’s will and to the high principles of serving our Country honorably and thereby serving each other as God has intended. We trust in the merciful love of Christ to instill in the prevailing candidate the principles of protecting the life and dignity of every person.
Sincerely yours in Christ’s love and mercy, Bishop Michael R. Cote
Un mensaje más bodadoso, más apacible época dolorosa y gravemente inquietante. ¿Cómo digerir el comportamiento que hemos visto hasta el momento a lo largo de la campaňa electoral, en el contexto de un mundo herido? ¿Cómo orientar la lucha personal que en última instancia
“¿Que pasa si en el curso de esto puedo cambiar una vida? ¿Puedo afectar a una vida?” John Kasich
cada uno enfrenta para ejercer nuestra ciudadanía responsable y fiel? Afortunadamente, todavía hay tiempo para trabajar a través de los problemas y aplicar los principios de nuestra fe en el proceso de decisión que vamos a
enfrentar en noviembre. Escucharemos, estudiaremos, oraremos y participaremos en nuestra democracia como es nuestra obligación moral. Los desafíos en cuanto a la santidad, el bienestar y la dignidad de cada vida humana en nuestro país y Continued on page 4
June/July 2016
Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo, Sigue existiendo tanta furia por ambas partes a la temporada política en curso. Ha sido cada vez más turbulento. Y, por desgracia, hemos tenido que soportar hace apenas dos semanas la inefable violencia y pérdida de vidas en Orlando. Es una
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CATHOLIC
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mĂĄs allĂĄ de muchas maneras, son tan grandes. A lo largo de lo que ahora se siente como una campaĹˆa cansada rumbo hacia las respectivas convenciones el prĂłximo mes, ha habido algunos momentos extraordinarios-no necesariamente esos que reciben considerable cobertura de los medios. Uno de esos momentos que se destaca para mĂ, y tal vez tambiĂŠn para usted, fue el final de la campaĹˆa de John Kasich. En un miĂŠrcoles por la tarde la primera semana de mayo, que ahora parece hace mucho tiempo con las aguas de precipitaciĂłn, como son, John Kasich anunciĂł la suspensiĂłn de su campaĹˆa. Fue una modesta ocasiĂłn de noticias, en mitad de la semana en un entorno adecuadamente modesto para un hombre que habĂa entregado su mensaje de esperanza a traves de 19 estados y ahora habĂa vuelto a casa para agradecer a su esposa y a sus partidarios. No hay demasiadas noticias allĂ-un candidato quien habĂa ganado sĂłlo en un estado primario. Un candidato ensombrecido en gran medida por las voces mĂĄs fuertes e indignantes de la campaĹˆa electoral. Sin embargo, esa noche, John Kasich dio lo que me pareciĂł ser el mejor discurso de todos los candidatos, en todas las noches, en todos los estados de la campaĹˆa. El suyo fue un discurso sensato sobre sus experiencias de descubrimiento de AmĂŠrica. HablĂł de las personas que conociĂł, sus historias y sus esperanzas, el amor por su paĂs. Su fe. Mi sentido de este hombre humilde era que se sentĂa realizado por haber entregado su mensaje allĂ en el camino, sin tener en cuenta los votos contados al final del dĂa. Por Favor recuerde que yo no soy partidario de un candidato conectado a cualquiera de las elecciones primarias. Estoy compartiendo mis opiniones de John Kasich con usted porque siento que su mensaje positivo merece ser entregado a los demĂĄs, no para fines polĂticos sino por el valor del mensaje en su propio mĂŠrito. En sus palabras, “Usted ve, yo creo que todos necesitamos vivir una vida un poco mĂĄs
grande que nosotros mismos. Tenemos que llegar a ayudar a otras personas‌ Es un cĂrculo virtuoso cuando ayudamos a alguien a levantarse. Nos abre para recibir las cosas que necesitamos en nuestras vidas.â€? Estas fueron palabras de convicciĂłn, palabras sinceras. Un mensaje que todavĂa estarĂĄ de pie mucho despuĂŠs de que los gritos inteligentes de ofensas de otros candidatos y expertos se hayan disipado. John pasĂł a compartir de quĂŠ forma ĂŠl cree que el SeĹˆor puede tener otro propĂłsito para ĂŠl. CerrĂł su campaĹˆa con este pensamiento mĂĄs amplio, “Lo ve, siempre he dicho que el SeĹˆor tiene un propĂłsito para mĂ, como lo ha hecho para todo el mundo. Y como suspendo mi campaĹˆa, he renovado la fe-fe mĂĄs profunda-que el SeĹˆor me mostrarĂĄ el camino a seguir para cumplir el propĂłsito de mi vidaâ€?. Para aquellos de nosotros afortunados de haber escuchado su discurso esa noche, aprendimos algo acerca de carĂĄcter y perseverancia. Aprendimos de un servidor pĂşblico veterano que dio todo lo que tenĂa a la campaĹˆa, y fue victorioso en la entrega de su mensaje de fe, el amor al prĂłjimo y al paĂs. Gracias, John Kasich, por su dedicaciĂłn a centrarse en lo mejor de nosotros. Felicitaciones por traer atenciĂłn a la voluntad de Dios y a los altos principios de servir a nuestro paĂs con honor y de este modo servir los unos a los otros como Dios lo ha manifestado. Nosotros confiamos en el amor misericordioso de Cristo para inculcar en el candidato predominante los principios para proteger la vida y la dignidad de cada persona. Atentamente en el amor y la alegrĂa de Cristo, Michael R. Cote Obispo de Norwich
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Un mensaje mĂĄs bodadoso, mĂĄs apacible
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Holy Hour for Vocations The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, leads the Holy Hour: Father Greg Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations vocations@norwichdiocese.net
(860) 887-9294
www.God-Calls.com
Four County
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VOCATIONS CORNER DIRECTOR OF PRESITLY VOCATIONS, FATHER GREGORY GALVIN
T
his past Saturday morning at women, they do so with a heart that has been the Catherdral of St. Patrick, opened and flooded with God’s love for Norwich, the Harvest Master serving His family. Father Langevin, Father answered our prayers four times Griffin, Father Aguirre and Father Ellis each over! Thanks be to God for the priestly answered the call received, each in a different vocation of Father Juan Aguirre, Father Tom way. Their willingness to say yes promises Griffin, Father God’s family that God will Peter Langevin continue to remain present and Father Jeff to His people every day in Ellis. It has been this area of the Church’s a long journey vast vineyard, through for each of these the reception of the men - spiritually, sacraments which each Father Juan A. Aguirre Father Jeffrey R. Ellis academically, of the newly ordained physically, and will now be able to make vocationally. available to His people. Thank you for In the glorious saying yes and celebration this past answering The Saturday at the Cathedral Call! We are so of Saint Patrick, from Father Peter J. Langevin very proud of the blaring trumpets to Father Tom D. Griffin each and every the long procession of one of you. Knights of Columbus, servers, permanent Thank you to each of the families of deacons, priests and those to be ordained - to these new priests. Your love, support, the silence of the moment when through the encouragement and example of living faith office of the Bishop, each man came forward have played an important role in bringing as Bishop Cote laid his hands on their head in these men to where they are now. They were prayer, the Spirit of God changed each man called by God and now have been confirmed into a priestly representative of His Son the in that call, ordained as priests of Jesus High Priest, Jesus Christ. Each of these men Christ. They now are sent by God to care for has been ordained and commissioned to live His family. May God continue to bless them his life now for the Church. Each man has in all they will do! been called to willingly lay his life down for These past five months while visiting many the needs of God’s sons and daughters, every of our parish schools, I had the opportunity day. Each of them has been sent to preach to spend thirty to forty minutes reading a the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. To be an book to the kindergarten, first and second instrument of God’s Mercy and Compassion, graders. We read about where religious an instrument of God’s healing grace and by sisters/brothers/priests come from and where administering the sacraments of the Church diocesan priests come from. The answer is to the people of God, to continually nourish the same. They come from God’s people. them so they may in their own lives always They are chosen by God and sent by God to remain open to whatever God is calling them serve His family. When a man is ordained to do for Him. Please continue to pray for a priest, or a young women or young man our new priests and for more men to answer takes perpetual vows as a religious man or The Call!
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June/July 2016
Called And Sent! Four New Priests For The Diocese!
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Four County
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CATHOLIC
Celebration of the Ordination Four New Priests Sent Forth as
‘Ambassadors of Christ, ... By Four County Catholic Contributor- Shelley Wolf June 25, 2016 NORWICH — atholics from throughout the Diocese of Norwich and beyond rejoiced as the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, ordained four men during a Mass of Ordination to the Holy Priesthood on June 25 at the Cathedral of St. Patrick. The cathedral, which seats more than 1,000, was packed to capacity as family, friends, and 75 priests and deacons participated in the Mass and prayed for God’s blessing on a landmark day of celebration. It was the first time since 2003 that four priests have been ordained in the diocese in a single year. The four candidates for ordination were Juan A. Aguirre, Jeffrey R. Ellis, Thomas P. Griffin, and Peter J. Langevin. “We thank God for the gift of their vocations and we ask Him to pour out his graces on many other sons,” Bishop Cote said. During the Rite of Ordination, the bishop asked if the men were known to be worthy. Father Gregory Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations, said that they were. The audience stood and applauded with great enthusiasm, signifying their assent. “Your vigorous applause tells me that
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The elect lying prostrate for the Litany of Supplication. you’re almost as happy as I am,” Bishop Cote said. During the homily, the bishop reflected on the priesthood. “Every vocation to the priesthood ministry is an extraordinary gift of God’s love,” Bishop Cote said. “What a wonderful ministry it is to follow in the steps of Jesus Christ and continue to serve his people and pour his mercy upon them, which is most effectively accomplished in the celebration of the sacraments – particularly the sacraments of baptism, the Eucharist, and reconciliation.”
Bishop Cote also noted that “people hunger in our day for greater meaning.” “As we are ordained,” he said, “we are privileged to be ambassadors of Christ, ambassadors and vessels of God’s infinite mercy.” Bishop Cote also expressed his “deep appreciation” to the seminaries that educated the four men, to Father Galvin, to the men’s parish priests, and mostly to their families. “Congratulations to the families for the care and support you’ve shown them,” he said. “God bless you all.” After the homily, the four men
promised respect and obedience to the bishop and his successors. Then they laid prostrate on the floor of the sanctuary as all in attendance knelt and chanted the Litany of the Saints, pleading for God’s grace for the candidates. Each candidate rose and knelt before Bishop Cote for the silent laying on of hands, in which the Bishop called on the Holy Spirit. It was at this moment that each man was transformed into a priest. The newly-ordained priests were invested with priestly garments, the stole and chasuble, and had their hands anointed with holy chrism oil, signifying their participation in the priesthood. They also received the chalice, and were embraced by Bishop Cote and all of their fellow priests in attendance during the Kiss of Peace. The new priests then joined Bishop Cote for the first time in joyfully concelebrating the Eucharist. Finally, the new priests imparted their first blessings to a kneeling Bishop Cote and to their immediate family members. Following the Mass, the participants remarked on the special day. “It means a lot to the diocese,” Father Galvin said. “Whenever one man is ordained, it’s a glorious day. To have four men is a big help. There’s plenty of work for them to do in the vineyard of Christ. “We’re joyful for each of their families,” he added. “And from my own Continued on next page
Four County
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CATHOLIC
Father Peter Langevin blesses members of his family.
Vessels of God’s Infinite Mercy’ - Bishop Michael R. Cote
Bishop Michael R. Cote blesses Father Thomas P. Griffin.
Mr. & Mrs. Richard Ellis, in joyful attendance vantage point, especially as brother priests, for them to be able to take that step today is huge.” “It’s completely overwhelming,” newly ordained Father Langevin said. “It’s just gratitude to God and to all the people who are here. It’s the culmination of a lot of prayers and generosity from friends, family, and others. I couldn’t be here without their help.” “Everything is different now,” Father Aguirre said. “I feel God is with me now and He’s helping me to be everything I can be for the Church.” “It’s fantastic. It’s indescribable,” Father Griffin said. “Somebody told me that this was going to be a surreal
feeling, and it definitely is.” “We have a term in pastoral counseling called ‘emotional flooding’ and that’s what’s happening,” Father Ellis explained. “I can’t wait to get into the service of God’s holy people.” To that end, Bishop Cote announced assignments for the four new parochial vicars, who will assist pastors of the following parishes: Father Aguirre, St. Joseph in Willimantic and Sagrado Corazon De Jesus in Windham; Father Ellis, St. Bernard in Rockville and St. Matthew in Tolland; Father Griffin, St. Mary in Putnam and Most Holy Trinity in Pomfret; and Father Langevin, Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich.
Father Juan A. Aguirre blesses Bishop Michael R. Cote. Ordination photos by Meredith Morrison
June/July 2016
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Four County
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Gifts from Your Heart Make a Difference in Our Diocese
June/July 2016
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By Kathy Gaito emember in March when you sat at Mass and the Annual Catholic Appeal video played. The theme, Mercy – The Beating Heart of the Gospel, had to make you think. Maybe it made you want to learn more about Pope Francis’ ‘Year of Mercy’ and its meaning to Catholics across the globe. Maybe the message left you with a determination to focus on the meaning of the Gospel each week at Mass. Maybe seeing our Diocesan Ministries featured in the video made you think about the mission of our Church, the work of our ministries and how you could help this work to continue. The gifts you have given from your heart to support the 2016 Annual Catholic Appeal are making a difference…allowing our ministries to exercise the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy and continue to fulfill their missions. “The human heart plans the way, but the LORD directs the steps”. –Proverbs 16:9 Your generosity is providing the necessary funds for our ministries to continue to take steps to help others across our Diocesan communities. The ministries featured in the ACA video have carried on with their missions as follows: Office of Worship, under the direction of Sister Elissa Rinere, C.P., J.C.D., held a workshop in April on the preparation and celebration of the Church’s funeral liturgies which will be repeated in spring 2017. Notification was sent to parishes concerning final approval of the new rite for Confirmation (implemented May 15, 2016) and the new rite of Marriage (to be implemented by December 31, 2016). Sister Elissa attended a workshop on the new rite of Marriage in May which will be followed by workshops in the Diocese. Beginning in spring 2016, the Office of Worship will offer a workshop for new Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion and new Lectors. In addition, a workshop for those who bring Communion to the sick and homebound
will also be held. The Office of Worship will continue the publication of the column “Liturgy Notes” in the diocesan newspaper and will continue meetings of the Diocesan Liturgical Commission.
In April 2016, Catholic Charities Adoption Program facilitated the adoption of four babies who were in need of adoptive homes. A group of “waiting mothers” continue to meet monthly at our Norwich office to discuss parenting and adoption issues. The Adoption Program continues to work with adopted adults who are seeking information or reunions with their birth parents. In April 2016, the Adoption Program facilitated contact between two adopted adults and their birth parents. Catholic Charities Adoption Program looks forward to assisting more adopted adults find their birth parents, as well as facilitating adoptions and home studies for children who are in need of being adopted by a loving and caring family. The Catholic Foundation was pleased to receive an endowment from Jacqueline Keller of Mystic this past March. Miss Keller established the Margaret L. Keller Catholic Charities Endowment Fund to benefit Catholic Charities. Specifically, the earnings from this endowment will be used to assist single mothers to further their education in order to break the cycle of dependence. With the addition of this endowment, the Foundation now has 21 endowments. The Board of the Catholic Foundation recently approved the disbursement of $290,788.00 to support ministries within the Diocese including St. Vincent de Paul Place, Norwich, St. Vincent de Paul, Middletown and Catholic Charities, as well as all of the Diocesan elementary and high schools. Included in this distribution will be a number of scholarships as well. The Foundation distributes these monies at its Annual Awards Dinner.
Hispanic Ministry continues to offer important programs of evangelization, faith formation and ministry to youth and families throughout the Diocese of Norwich. In February of this year, Bishop Cote appointed representatives from the five parishes offering Hispanic Ministry to serve on a team that will be involved in the nation-wide Fifth Encuentro for Hispanic Ministry and guide the process in our Diocese beginning in the early part of 2017. The Encuentro is a process of theological reflection by which pastoral leaders, together with their people, engage in an in-depth self-study of the ministry, beginning on the parish level, then moving to the diocesan and regional levels, and finally ending on the national level. On each of the levels, the process ends with an event – Encuentro – which synthesizes and celebrates the achievements and findings of the consultation. At the final celebration, the national gathering, delegates from across the country work to synthesize the proposals which have been garnered from the different levels and put them together in a working document, with practical applications. This Fifth Encuentro - V Encuentro - is convened in the context of the New Evangelization. Its primary objective is to discern ways in which the Church can more effectively respond to the Hispanic/Latino presence, and to strengthen the way in which Hispanic/Latinos respond as Church. As you can see, the ministries in our Diocese work tirelessly each and every day to make a difference in our communities. All of our Diocesan Ministries have made significant strides in carrying out their
missions. “Therefore, since we have this ministry through the mercy shown us, we are not discouraged.”– 2 Corinthians 4:1 Your gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal provides encouragement and hope to many in our Diocese who seek help from one or more of our over twentyfive ministries and programs. It shows you understand the plight of those who need assistance. As of May 12, 2016, the Annual Catholic Appeal has raised $2,440,964.87. We thank you! You have made heard the sound of, Mercy – The Beating Heart of the Gospel, throughout our Diocese. To learn more about the ministries featured in this article, please watch the 2016 ACA video online at the website below. If you haven’t already contributed to the 2016 Annual Catholic Appeal and would like to do so, please contact: Development Office Diocese of Norwich 197 Broadway Norwich, CT 06360 860.886.1928 www.norwichdiocesedevelopment.org
Parker
p a r k e r m e m o r i a l s @ ya h o o . c o m
136 Sachem Street Norwich CT 06360 860-889-2374 Fax 860-886-2396
June 21-July 4
Fortnight for Freedom The bishops’ Fortnight for Freedom began June 21 and will extend to July 4. This year’s theme is “Witnesses to Freedom” and will include a nationwide tour of relics of St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher. The Fortnight will also highlight stories of several people of faith from around the world.
Thursday, June 30 Bible Timeline
Bible Timeline is a Catholic Bible study. The Divine Mercy Faith Community will begin the timeline on April 14th through September 29th from 7-9:00pm at Our Lady of the Lakes Parish Hall, Oakdale. The cost of the 24 part study program is $35.00. For more information please contact Our Lady of the Lakes at 860-859-1575.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
and with God. To register for the July 8-10 weekend in Manchester or for more information call 860376-0440 or visit www.wwmect.org.
Thursday, July 14 Bible Timeline
Bible Timeline is a Catholic Bible study. The Divine Mercy Faith Community will begin the timeline on April 14th through September 29th from 7-9:00pm at Our Lady of the Lakes Parish Hall, Oakdale. The cost of the 24 part study program is $35.00. For more information please contact Our Lady of the Lakes at 860-859-1575.
Saturday, July 23
Marriage Enrichment
Channel 20 WTXX, Charter. Channel 11 WCCT, Comcast. Father Greg Galvin celebrant.
Come and experience “Beloved”, a powerful new video series to help you enrich and fortify your marriage. Held at St. Mary’s, Baltic from 7-9pm. The sessions will be held on: July 23rd, August 13th, September 10th & 15th. If you are interested, please contact Brenda Peter at 860-887-8454 to sign up and purchase a Couples’ Guide ($24.95).
Friday-Sunday July 8 – 10
Thursday, July 28
Wednesday, July 6 Television Mass
Marriage Encounter Weekend
Holy Hour for Vocations
Couples give your marriage a welldeserved vacation. Plan to go on a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend and come back with a marriage that is refreshed and full of energy! A weekend away renews the romance and excitement you experienced during your dating days. It will help you enjoy life with a new closeness to each other
The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, leads the Holy Hour at St. Francis of Assisi, Middletown. For more information contact Father Greg Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations at vocations@ norwichdiocese.net or (860) 8879294. www.God-Calls.com
Four County
CATHOLIC
Sunday, July 31
63rd Annual Blessing of the Fleet St. Mary Church in Stonington Borough will celebrate the 63rd annual Blessing of the Fleet. Bishop Cote, along with other members of the clergy, will officiate Mass at 10:30am. Following Mass, a parade will proceed to the Town Dock. Once at the dock, Bishop Cote will bless the vessels that will go out to sea in the coming year along with blessing the captains and crews of the boats. Fishermen who have died at sea will be remembered in prayer as a wreath in the shape of a broken anchor will be placed into the water at the mouth of Stonington Harbor. Food and soft drinks will be for sale, and music will be provided by “The Country Misfits”. Festivities will run from 12-4pm.
Wednesday, August 3 Television Mass
Channel 20 WTXX, Charter. Channel 11 WCCT, Comcast. Father Ray Introvigne celebrant.
Thursday, August 25
Holy Hour for Vocations The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, leads the Holy Hour at St. Thomas More, North Stonington from 6-7pm. For more information contact Father Greg Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations at vocations@norwichdiocese.net or 860-887-9294. www.God-Calls.com.
Tradition Marches on at St. Sebastian Feast
The faithful I Nuri demonstrate devotion to Parish Patron Saint, St. Sebastian, at annual Festival in Middletown.
I (Jesus) stand at the door (of your heart) and knock...He who opens the door, We (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) will come in and have dinner (intimacy) with him/her.” ~ Revelations 3:20
Charismatic Prayer Meetings
Every Tuesday afternoon at 2PM Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich
Prayer Group Mass
Wednesday, June 22, 2016 Our Lady of Lourdes, Gales Ferry – 7PM
Masses of Healing and Hope
Monday’s, June 27th, July 11th & 25th. 2PM. Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich. All are prayed with individually
Prayer Group Mass
Monday, July 26, 2016 at 7:30PM.
Television Mass
Wednesday, August 3, 2016 at 10:00AM Channel 11 WCCT Comcast Channel 20 WTXX Charter Celebrant – Father Ray Introvigne Music Ministry – Brothers and Sisters of Charity
June/July 2016
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Four County
Our DIOCESE
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Academy of the HOLY FAMILY At the Academy of the Holy Family, friends become family, so our house is always open to you!
The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, has made the following clergy and diocesan appointments in the Diocese of Norwich:
An OPEN HOUSE on your time
Clergy Appointments
Come visit us and see…
ϮAn environment that respects the dignity of each student as a sacred trust ϮA safe place with strong Christian values where our young women thrive ϮA family atmosphere with small classes, focusing on YOU! ϮA college prep program that opens the doors to opportunities ϮExtra tutoring to make it happen ϮSports, Activities and Unique Traditions to round out your personality and
Reverend Christopher Feeney, from Leave of Absence for personal reasons to Parochial Vicar, Saint Michael Parish, Pawcatuck, Saint Mary Parish, Stonington, and Saint Thomas More Parish, North Stonington. Effective: June 1, 2016. Reverend P. Grzegorz Jednaki, Diocesan Director for the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith while continuing as Pastor of Saint Philip the Apostle Parish, Warrenville, and Saint Jude Parish, Willington. Effective: May 12, 2016 Reverend Walter Nagle, from Leave of Absence for Personal reasons, to Parochial Vicar, Christ the King Parish, Old Lyme. Effective: June 15, 2016.
FIRE AND WATER DAMAGE 24 Hour Emergency Service Wednesday, July 6th
Television Mass
June/July 2016
Celebrant – Father Greg Galvin At 10:00am Channel 11 WCCT Comcast Channel 20 WTXX Charter
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We Can Help To report inappropriate contact of any kind by a representative of the Diocese of Norwich or for assistance to victims, please call: 1-800-624-7407
Fire, Water and Smoke Cleanup and Restoration Carpet, Upholstery and Drape Cleaning Odor Removal Complete Move-Outs
of Norwich/Windham County
860-887-0447
Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration Independently Owned and Operated
Like it never even happened
Podemos Ayudar Para reportar cualquier contacto inapropiado por un/a representante de la Diócesis de Norwich, o para buscar ayuda para víctimas, favor de llamar: 1-800-624-7407
build community
Become one of the family! For family visits and student shadowing or for more information, please call us or send a date request by e-mail to:
admissions@ahfbaltic.org
1-860-822-6279
54 West Main Street
www.ahfbaltic.org
Baltic, CT 06330
It’s Time for Sunny Days at Creamery Brook. You know how the saying goes – April showers bring May flowers. When the clouds roll away and the sun starts to shine, things begin to bloom. Just as in nature, so as in life. Things really blossom when new light shines on them and they get a little TLC. Why not take a little time to explore the ways you can grow into a whole new independent or assisted lifestyle in one of our beautiful apartments or cottages at Creamery Brook. Call 860-779-8700 today for information or a tour.
36 Vina Lane, Brooklyn, CT 06234 860-779-8700 • www.piercecare.org
Creamery Brook is part of the Continuum of Care at
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Marriage Encounter – A Catholic Young Women’s Forum Inspires Renewed Closeness to Marriage 300 Young women, from across the United States, met at Catholic University of America in Washington D.C. from June 7th to the 12th for the first ever GIVEN Forum. GIVEN was a week-long leadership forum for Catholic young women between
other Catholic Young Women who are on fire for their faith and want to use their skills to better the church,” Ashley stated. Before arriving on campus at CUA, Ashley’s greatest hope was to grow in faith through participation in learning
GIVEN 2016: Catholic Young Women’s Leadership Forum
the ages of 20 and 30 years old. Each participant of GIVEN applied via a rigorous application process. The overarching mission of GIVEN was to cultivate authentic femininity for the life of the Church through Action Plans that each participant was required to create as part of her application. All Action Plans will be implemented by April 2017 in the participants’ home parishes and dioceses. Among the young women, was one of the Diocese of Norwich’s very own: Ashley Dombrowski. Ashley is a Director of Religious Education at two parishes in the Diocese of Norwich – Church of the Holy Family, in Hebron and St. Columba Catholic Church, in Columbia. Ashley has a strong background in Marketing and Communications, a skill set that she offers to her parish and the diocese in a number of capacities. “I was thrilled to be accepted as a participant to the GIVEN Forum. I truly feel blessed to have been able to spend the week with
sessions, Adoration, prayer, Mass, and small group work. “The conference exceeded my hopes and expectations. I learned so much about women’s issues and roles in the universal Church from the presenters and from the other women in my small group that I’m still working on processing all of it. The Prayer and Adoration sessions were a wonderful time to reflect on the week and fill up on God’s graces.”
Referring to the learning sessions, Ashley explained, “There were so many powerful speakers, but if I had to choose, my favorite presenters would have to be Dr. Carolyn Woo, Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Relief Services and Sister Norma Pimental. Both are strong, influential women with inspiring stories.”
As part of Ashley’s Action Plan, she plans to create more events for students in grades five through seven, in hopes that the events will expose students to a deeper faith at a pivotal age. “My ultimate goal is to share faith in a fun Continued to page 15
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By: Mary-Jo McLaughlin aul and Kim Gilbert were like many married couples finding the joys that they experienced in the early days of their marriage were slowly being replaced with disillusionment. They were looking for something to rekindle the feelings they once felt. They found it in a Worldwide Marriage Encounter (WWME) weekend. “I wanted to be married, but I didn’t want to do the work of making my marriage great,” recalls Paul, a member of St. James Parish in Danielson. “The weekend made me take a long look at myself and helped me to make conscious decisions to make my marriage and Kim a priority.” A Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend consists of a series of presentations given by a team of three Catholic couples and a priest. Each presentation builds on the previous one and allows participants to explore their personality styles, behaviors and attitudes, as well as how they communicate and listen to one another. The backbone of the weekend is a communication technique couples learn and is modeled by presenting team couples. The goal is to enhance communication between couples on important areas of their relationship in a way that will build intimacy with one another and enrich and deepen their relationship. “It is easier for me to talk to Paul now about difficult issues,” said Kim Gilbert, referring to the communication skill she learned on the weekend. “Before our weekend, I would be afraid to open up and really share my feelings with Paul. Now, I am more confident that Paul will be respectful of my feelings.” The weekend also gives couples an understanding of God’s plan for their marriage and encourages them to live a Sacramental lifestyle with service in the church as a couple. “The Marriage
Encounter weekend impacted and changed our lives in ways we could not have imagined,” said Frank Pearson, who, with his wife Margie, serves as leadership couple of Connecticut WWME. “The most significant impact was in terms of our coming to understand that our relationship, indeed our marriage, by way of Sacrament, is a visible sign of God’s love for His people. In turn, that understanding has challenged us to live daily as that very sign. What the weekend also provided us, however, were the methods, the tools if you will, as to how to make that happen.” The Pearsons are members of St. Thomas Aquinas parish in Storrs. A Marriage Encounter weekend is not a retreat, marriage clinic or a substitute for counseling. Following each presentation, couples return to their rooms for personal discussion. There is no group sharing. The weekend is not for troubled marriages, rather it is geared toward making a good marriage even better. “We have been able to maintain an openness and connectedness with each other that previously had begun to drift away,” added Margie Pearson. “We believe that this ‘drifting’ is normal in our world today and that the weekend allows couples to recognize and reduce it.” Upcoming weekends in Connecticut are scheduled for July 8-10 and November 11-13 in Manchester. They begin on Friday evening and end Sunday afternoon with Mass. There is a $50 application fee for the weekend. A voluntary donation is requested at the end of the weekend to help with expenses. For more information or to register for a weekend, contact Paul and Kim Gilbert at 860-376-0440, visit the website at www.wwmect.org or call Mary-Jo McLaughlin at Catholic Family Services, 860-848-2237, Ext. 306.
June/July 2016
By: Four County Catholic News Desk -- contributions by Ashley Dombrowski
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The Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women’s 61st Annual Convention
T
he Norwich Diocesan Women’s Guild, Lebanon. Council of Catholic Women President Judith Pappagallo conducted (NDCCW) held its 61st a brief business meeting. Father Brian Annual Convention at St. Maxwell, NDCCW’s Spiritual Advisor Andrew’s Church in Colchester on and Missionary of Mercy gave a Saturday, May 14th. The theme of this presentation on the Year of Mercy as year’s convention was “Beautiful Mercy.” declared by Pope Francis. He spoke of There were 116 women from throughout how God’s mercy worked in his own life, the diocese present. Morning refreshments bringing him full circle to the priesthood. were provided by St. Andrew’s Women He also reminded us of how the Spiritual 2x6 ImmaculataRetreat June16FCC_Main 6/16/2016 2:56 PM Page 1 Guild, Colchester and St. Francis of Assisi and Corporal Works of Mercy work in our everyday lives. Maribeth Stewart, VicePresident elect of the National Council of A Ministry of the Missionary Oblates Catholic of Mary Immaculate Women gave a power point 289 Windham Road, Rte. 32 presentation on Willimantic, Connecticut the history of NCCW.
Immaculata RetReat House
CENTERING PRAYER RETREAT:
July 28 - Aug 03, “The Heart of The Matter”. A silent retreat for men and women presented by Father Bill Sheehan, OMI. “Our God, who delights in us, simply wants to be in our presence! And when we dwell in God’s Presence through Centering Prayer, we find a freedom only possible to God! Offering is $600 and includes all meals and private accommodations.
SPIRITUAL DIRECTION:
For all who want to examine in detail and strengthen their relationship with God, we offer one-on-one personal counselling. Free will offering accepted according to ability to give. Suggested: $20-$50 per hour. Contact Immaculata front desk.
June/July 2016
INDIVIDUAL and/or GROUP RETREATS:
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Conference halls, chef-prepared meals, private rooms w/bath, WIFI. Call for details. To register or for more information: Phone: 860-423-8484 E-mail: info@immaculataretreat.org
Bishop Cote and Catholic Charities Executive Director Ed Tessman receive NDCCW contribution from president Judith Pappagallo. Cote was the celebrant of the liturgy, concelebrants of the Mass were Father Brian Maxwell, Father Marek Masnicki, Pastor, and Father Benjamin Soosaimanickam, Pastoral Associate, both from St. Andrew, Colchester and St. Francis of Assisi, Lebanon. In his homily, Bishop Cote praised the women of NDCCW for their 61 years of sharing programs and projects and adding a new richness and vitality to the diocesan
community. He reminded everyone “to be proud of membership in the Council as it is a dynamic force for imparting critical issues in our society particularly those concerning women.”
At the luncheon which followed Bishop Cote was presented with a check for $18,313.74 representing 60% of the dues Bishop from the NDCCW Membership Drive Michael held every fall in all the parishes of the diocese. The Bishop was pleased to present the check to Edward e specialize Tessman, Executive Director of in coastal Catholic Charities. construction The day climaxed with a musical projects including presentation by the St. Andrew’s seawalls, jetties, stone choir led by Music Director, Colleen revetments, and more. Puscas. The choir is a prayerful, We provide customers joyful music ministry that is thankful with exceptional quality to God for many opportunities to and the latest techniques serve. The choir has made eight and materials to protect international tours including waterfront properties in singing for Pope John Paul II’s 20th Southern New England. anniversary, and recently singing the National anthem for the Women’s For questions or your free proposal please call NCAA semi-final basketball Adam Vernott at 860-287-0036 or Sal Barajas at 914-804-0309 tournament. It was a delight to have or email info@oceancountyconstruction.com them perform for the convention. oceancountyconstruction.com
Ocean County
Construction
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Four County
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LITURGY NOTES
Sister Elissa Rinere, C.P., J.C.D.
Saint Mary Magdalene about his resurrection.” The narrative of this event is preserved for us in the Gospel of John 20: 11-16. Mary was outside the tomb weeping because the tomb was empty. She thought the body of Jesus had been stolen. Then, Jesus appeared to her, but Mary mistakenly thought he was the gardener. When Jesus identified himself, Mary called him by his familiar name, “Teacher.” The Commentary explains, “Jesus has a special consideration and mercy for this woman, who manifests her love for him, looking for him in the garden with anguish and suffering.” Also, this moment of understanding and faith on the part of Mary is called “an ecclesial moment,” and a lesson for every follower of Jesus to put faith in the living and risen Christ. This beautiful Gospel scene continues (John 20:17-18), providing the second reason for Pope Francis’ action to honor Mary Magdalene. Jesus directs Mary to go to the disciples and tell them what she has seen and heard. Thus, Mary Magdalene becomes the “apostle to the apostles,” announcing to them the Good News of the resurrection, which they will, in turn, announce to the world. The Commentary again states “For this reason it is right that the liturgical celebration of this woman should have the same rank of Feast as that given to the celebration of the apostles in the General Roman Calendar and that the special mission of this woman should be underlined, she who is an example and model for all women in the Church.” Little is known of Mary Magdalene beyond what is said of her in the Gospels. She certainly was one of the women who accompanied Jesus during his ministry. She is mentioned, along with Mary, the Mother of Jesus, standing at the foot of the cross when Jesus died; and, of course, John’s Gospel describes her encounter with Jesus after the resurrection.
According to some traditions, Mary Magdalene is seen as the same woman who anointed Jesus’ feet at the house of Simon (Luke 7:36-50); other traditions equate her with Mary of Bethany, the sister of Lazarus (John 12: 1-8). Despite these questions about her history, what is clear is Mary’s devotion, courage, perseverance and fidelity to Jesus. This year, the Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene is celebrated on Friday, July 22nd. The story of Mary weeping at the tomb, then finding Jesus, and then
being commissioned to bring news of the resurrection to the apostles is retold in the Gospel of the day. The prayer after Communion expresses the hope that all followers of Jesus may be filled with the persevering love that filled the heart of Saint Mary Magdalene, and caused her to believe in Jesus even in the midst of tragedy and sorrow. This sentiment is in keeping with the new designation and dignity now given to this great saint.
Pilgrimage to the Shrines of Eastern Canada You are Invited to Join Father Brian Maxwell; Missionary of Mercy, as we visit: Holy Doors of the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Québec, Shrine of Saint Anne de Beaupré, Shrine of Our Lady of the Cape, Saint Joseph's Oratory & more!
September 5 - 10, 2016 $1,295 for Double Occupancy from Norwich, CT For more inf nfformation contact Liza Roach rw wichdiocese.net or at lroach@nor 2237 ex.305 (860)848-2 DAILY MASS AT THE HOLY SITES
June/July 2016
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ome weeks ago, Pope Francis indicated his desire, in keeping with the Year of Mercy, that the role of women in the Church be highlighted and enhanced. To that end, he directed that the memorial of Saint Mary Magdalene, celebrated throughout the entire Church on July 22nd, be elevated on the Liturgical Calendar from a memorial to a Feast. Following upon the wishes of Pope Francis, the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, an office of the Vatican, issued a decree on June 10, 2016, which announced the change. This might not mean very much to those unfamiliar with the intricacies of the Church’s Liturgical Calendar, but for those who are familiar with the way celebrations for different saints are “ranked” in importance, the change has some significance. In the Liturgical Year, most saints are commemorated with a “memorial,” but the designation of “Feast” is reserved for special events, or for saints of particular significance. The only designation higher in importance than a Feast is a Solemnity, such as the Solemnity of the Annunciation, or the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart. To emphasize the action being taken to honor Saint Mary Magdalene, both the decree effecting the change, and the official commentary explaining the decree are named “Apostle of the Apostles,” a title given to Saint Mary Magdalene by Saint Thomas Aquinas more than seven hundred years ago. The official commentary written by Archbishop Arthur Roche, which accompanies the Vatican decree, provides two reasons for this action taken by Pope Francis. First, Saint Mary Magdalene has the “honor to be the first witness of the Lord’s resurrection, the first who saw the empty tomb and the first to hear the truth
Bishop Flanagan Ministry Center
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Our DIOCESE
Where in our
Diocese?
For the Answer look over to Page 15.
At the time of death, the Church confidently proclaims God has created us for eternal life. “Through the saving death of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we rise at your word to the glory of the Resurrection.” (PREFACE - CHRISTIAN DEATH IV)
ST. MARY & ST. JOSEPH CEMETERY
Community Mausoleum Available 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich • 860-887-1019
Four County
In
CATHOLIC
Tribute Father Tom Ahern
Norwich - The Reverend Thomas W. Ahern, 92, retired priest of the Diocese of Norwich, died Thursday, June 16, 2016, at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown. Father Ahern is fondly remembered as a caring, generous, prayerful and joyful priest. Father Ahern was born in Middletown, on Nov. 23, 1923, son of the late Thomas and Mary Ellen (Cahill) Ahern. He prepared for the priesthood at St. Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield and St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore, Md. On May 6, 1948, Father Ahern was ordained a priest at St. Joseph Cathedral in Hartford by The Most Reverend Henry J. O’Brien, D.D., Archbishop of the Hartford Archdiocese. Father Ahern’s first parish assignment was at St. Joseph Church in Chester, then within the Archdiocese of Hartford. He next served from 1957 to 1960 at St. Mary’s Church in Portland, officially his first assignment within the newly formed Diocese of Norwich. In November of 1960, he was assigned to St. Mary Star of the Sea Church in New London. Two years later, Father Ahern was appointed pastor of Our Lady of Grace on Fishers Island, N.Y. He would subsequently be appointed pastor of St. Peter’s in Higganum and Sacred Heart Church in Groton. In 1976, Father Ahern became the pastor of St. Joseph Church in Chester, the parish where he served his original first assignment shortly after his ordination in 1948. Father Ahern further served the Diocese of Norwich as judge of the Diocesan Tribunal for a five-year term as appointed by Bishop Daniel A. Hart. Father Ahern also served for many years as the Dean of the Old Saybrook Deanery. Father Ahern retired from active ministry in October, 1998. In recent years, he had been in residence at Christ the King Church in Old Lyme. Memorial contributions may be made in Father Ahern’s name to Christ the King Church, 1 McCurdy Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371 or to The Ursuline Sisters of Tildonk, Provincial Office, 81-15 Utopia Parkway, Jamaica, NY 11432. To share a memory of Father Ahern or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com.
SACRED HEART CEMETERY
Harland Road, Taftville • 860-887-1019
ST. PATRICK CEMETERY
Depot Road, Uncasville • 860-887-1019
ST. MARY CEMETERY
Community Mausoleum Available 600 Jefferson Ave, New London • 860-443-3465
RESURRECTION CEMETERY
Route 145, Westbrook • 860-399-6503
SACRED HEART CEMETERY
Wauregan Road, Wauregan • 860-887-1019
June/July 2016
ALL HALLOWS CEMETERY
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Green Hallow Road, Moosup • 860-887-1019
Norwich Diocesan Cemetery Corporation 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich CT 06360 860-887-1019
Deacon Walter William
Rockville Center - Deacon Walter B. Williams, Jr., 74, of East Longmeadow, MA, passed away on Tuesday, May 24, 2016. He was born in Brooklyn, NY, son of the late Walter B. and Veronica (Rodnite) Williams. A loving husband, father, and devoted grandfather, painter, poet, respected leader from the early days of automated computing and Deacon, Walter is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jean (Kempski) Williams; four sons, Walter B. Williams, III and his wife Margo, Thomas M. Williams and his wife Jennifer, Peter A. Williams, and Daniel P. Williams and his wife Joanne; 10 grandchildren; and two brothers, Michael Williams and his wife Jane, and John Burger and his wife Kathy. He was predeceased by his daughter, Katherine Williams. It was the loss of Katherine that sparked his lifelong calling to serve his God and Church, both as Deacon to the Diocese of Rockville Center, and in retirement at All Saints and Saint Edward the Confessor parishes. Memorial donations may be made to Mercy Medical Center, 271 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104.
Four County
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CATHOLIC Continued from page 11
Where in our
Diocese?
Saint Patrick Church, Mystic
Reverend Kevin M. Reilly, Pastor
32 East Main Street, Mystic, CT 06355 Phone: 860-536-1800 • E-mail: secretary@saintpatrickmystic.org Website: stpatrickmystic.org Mass Times: Sunday Masses: 8:30am & 10:15am (Saturday 5:00pm) Weekday Masses: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 12:05pm Holy Day Masses: 12:05pm & 7:00pm Confessions: Saturday 4:00pm or by appointment
GIVEN 2016: Catholic Young Women’s Leadership Forum loving way, with tweens to ultimately keep them involved in their parish community as they get older. To me, it’s important that the students feel like they have a safe place to call their own in the parish community and that they know they are loved, ” Ashley shared.
When asked about future GIVEN attendance, Ashley said, “I hope that there are more opportunities like this in the future for young women in our faith – and if there are, I hope to be a part of it again!” GIVEN Catholic Young Women’s Leadership Forum is a fully endowed, week long immersion in faith formation, leadership training and networking. The Forum provided a platform for what St. John Paul II called “the feminine genius,” and a response to Pope Francis’ plea for a
deeper understanding and activation of the unique gift of women in the Church and the world. GIVEN is one of the major events hosted by the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious (CMSWR) in connection with the Year of Consecrated Life, thanks to the generosity of the Hilton Foundation. GIVEN 2016 was entrusted to the guidance of the Holy Spirit under the protection of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Through the intercession of St. Therese of Lisieux, St. Teresa of Avila, St. Catherine of Siena, and St. Hildegard von Bingen. To learn more, visit www. givenforum.org.
Feel free to contact Ashley Dombrowski with questions about GIVEN and her work in ministry via email at ashley@holyfamilyhebron.org.
Rejoice in Hope July Day of Recollection July 6, 2016 With Earl Voss
Set some time aside for Him, book your retreat today!
(860) 536-0565 www.endersisland.com
Illuminated Prayer Book Workshop
Retreats
July 31- August 6, 2016 With Harvest Crittenden
July 3- July 9, 2016 With Sr. Eugenia Brady, SJC July 24-July 30, 2016 With Deacon Steven DeMartino July 30 - August 6, 2016 With Father Ed Dempsey
Mosaics Workshop
Guided Retreats God invites us in the midst of the noise and distractions we face every day to a deeper and more intimate relationship with Him.
Sacred Art Institute
Priest Retreat
July 10-July 15, 2016 With Father Eugene Hensell
July 31-August 6, 2016 With A. Vonn Hartung
June/July 2016
Day of Recollection
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Diocese of Norwich For the Love of a Child
Making a Difference in Childr
June/July 2016
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By Dennis Petruzzi n April 23, 2016 nearly 200 guests filled the reception hall of the Great Neck Country Club in Waterford on the occasion of the Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti’s 9th annual “For the Love of a Child” Gala. The Gala is the single largest fundraiser for Outreach to Haiti, but it is about more than just fundraising. Besides generating financial support for our mission and programs, the Outreach Board also seeks to raise awareness of the needs of the people we serve, particularly in the areas of children’s healthcare and education, and the positive results we are able to achieve in these arenas. Our keynote speaker for the evening was Jimmy Kervens Jean-Felix. Jimmy, now 25 and enrolled in university, has been in our education sponsorship program for 11 years. He shared a story of moving from the countryside village of his parents to the urban home of his grandparents in Port-au-Prince in order to secure a better educational opportunity. Before his 15th birthday, both his grandparents had died, and he and a younger brother found themselves faced with the choice of living on their own, or giving up on their dreams of continuing their education. They chose the former. However, it only became a reality when the headmaster of their school saw their plight, and connected them with Outreach to Haiti. They were given scholarships in our educational program, and have since been joined by 3 other brothers. With a degree in education and languages under his belt, Jimmy is now finishing a second degree program in business. Along the way he has participated in programs
by volunteering when guests come, helping the younger kids do better in school. There is hope now. There is hope because somehow some people have decided to invest in me as they believe it was the right thing to do to help Haiti. When I think about these people, I work harder because like the other kids of the program I am committed to show you that your investment was not in vain.” We recently heard from a first time donor who attended the gala and who spent only a few minutes in personal conversation with Jimmy. What he told us was that, in those few minutes what was most obvious was Jimmy’s gratitude, courage and commitment in embracing what has been both a challenge and an opportunity that has clearly changed his life. By every measure the evening was a huge success.
here in the U.S. sponsored by the State Department and private universities, spoken to granting foundations and donor groups on behalf of Outreach, been a leader in community organizations like the university arm of Rotary Club and continued to be the advocate and head of his satellite family of 7 brothers and sisters. It’s never been just about him, and he is most grateful for the opportunity that he
FAMILY RETREATS
Family Retreats for parents and their child are being offered at a retreat center near ocean beach in Duxbury, MA. has been given. Here’s an excerpt of his keynote speech: “As a beneficiary I understand the responsibility that goes with it. I feel happy to give back to my community in many ways. We have already started giving back
July 3-8 & July 31-August 5
Contact Deacon John & Peggy Scarf 845-621-7000 www.starofthesearetreats.com
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Outreach to Haiti
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efore starting with the list of my wonderful adventures in New York, I would like to say thank you to David and Pam Erold, and all who helped make it possible. Travelling to New York for a week has been one of my dearest trips until now; with the purpose of the 2016 CHANGE THE WORLD MODEL UNITED NATIONS Conference. This event, from March 18th to 20th, held in the renowned United Nations Headquarters has played
How You Can Make a Difference Choose to sponsor a student like Jimmy with a yearly tuition donation. Or make a one-time gift to the program. The costs of sponsoring students are: $425 US to sponsor a primary school student for one year • $500 US to sponsor a secondary school student for one year. • $800 US to sponsor a technical school student for one year • $2000 US to sponsor a university student for one year. (Payments can be made monthly, quarterly or annually.) •
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an important role in my lifetime. I have met awesome people and built some good relationship and even started working on a project idea. I have had a smooth and successful conference experience, engaging myself in substantive debate. In fact, I had the opportunity to walk amongst the footsteps of countless leaders who have defined the political, economic, and social aspects of our world. Coming to this fifth annual CWMUN Conference had been a tremendous opportunity for me to hone my model UN skills. We have landed in the JFK Airport on March 14th and were hosted for a two-day stay by collaborator and friend Evan, in Brooklyn. We have also visited some interesting places. The most amazing part of the visit, was when I had to see my dear grandma (See photo right). We got separated when I was 9. She was looking at me and noticing how tall I am. I have discovered a lot through this conference. There was such a wonderful feeling of being in a parliament, voting, proposing solutions and engaging in discussions, while being the delegate representing Yemen. We were about four members from the Rotaract Club of Port-au-Prince participating. This was so awesome sharing with those people from all over the world. It was unbelievable seeing the huge screens of New York and its beautiful places.
“I have discovered a lot through this conference. There was such a wonderful feeling of being in a parliament, voting, proposing solutions and engaging in discussions, while being the delegate representing Yemen.”
June/July 2016
ren’s Healthcare and Education Riguerson Jean Felix Attends 2016 Change the World Model United Nations Conference
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Four County
Our DIOCESE
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Hispanic Ministry moves forward with Fifth National Encuentro
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By Sister Mary Jude Lazerus, S.C.M.C.
he Fifth Encuentro – V Encuentro – is a process of theological reflection in Hispanic/Latino Ministry by which pastoral leaders, together with their people, engage in an in-depth self-study. It begins on the parish level, then moves to the diocesan and regional levels, and finally culminates on the national level. The V Encuentro process is the Church in mission, and it is well underway. To keep you informed of this important event, each month we will bring you an update on the most recent developments on the national level, and in the Diocese of Norwich. The national and regional teams are in place. Currently, many dioceses are forming their diocesan teams. In December of last year, Bishop Cote named the team for the Diocese of Norwich. In April of this year, the members participated in extensive training and orientation and have laid out a plan to begin their work. The Diocesan team of the V Encuentro is responsible for the promotion, facilitation and implementation of the V Encuentro process. It is also responsible for training parish teams on the implementation of the V Encuentro process. This process of evangelization and consultation is based on five sessions inspired by Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation The Joy of the Gospel.
Sister Mary Jude presiding over training and orientation for diocesan team. Each session will include missionary action and discernment of best pastoral practices. The guide will be available this fall to all parishes, lay ecclesial movements and Catholic organizations that will participate in this transforming missionary process. It is anticipated that the V Encuentro will touch the hearts of millions of Catholics and engage them as missionary disciples: witnesses of God’s love, particularly to young people and families living in the peripheries of society. Last month the National Team of Accompaniment of the V Encuentro (ENAVE) unveiled the official logo for the V Encuentro.
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El Ministerio Hispano Sigue Adelante con el V Encuentro Nacional El Equipo Diocesano del V Encuentro es responsable por la promoción, facilitación, e implementación del proceso del V Encuentro en las parroquias. También, es su responsabilidad orientar y entrenar a los equipos parroquiales, quienes van a guiar el proceso en la parroquia. Este proceso de evangelización y consultación está basado en la exhortación apostólica del Papa Francisco, La Alegría del Evangelio. Habrá 5 sesiones y en cada sesión estarán incluidas una acción misionera y el discernimiento sobre mejores prácticas pastorales. La guía va a estar disponible en el otoño para los que van a participar en este proceso misionero transformador. Se espera que el V Encuentro toque los corazones de millones de Católicos y, a la vez, involucrarlos como discípulos misioneros: testigos del amor de Dios, especialmente a los jóvenes y familias viviendo en las periferias de la sociedad. El mes pasado el Equipo Nacional (ENAVE) desplazó el logotipo del V Encuentro.
Father Mark D. O’Donnell (center), Pastor, St. Joseph Church, New London, congratulates Father Anthony J. Di Marco on his 10-year anniversary to the Priesthood, and Deacon Gerald Gaynor Jr’s 35th anniversary of service at St Joseph Church. The celebration was held on May 22nd, at Ocean Beach Park.
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l V Encuentro es un proceso de reflexión teológica en el ministerio Hispano/Latino por la cual los líderes pastorales, junto con el pueblo, entran en un estudio profundo del ministerio. Se inicia a nivel de la parroquia, después pasa a los niveles de la diócesis y de la región, finalmente, terminando a nivel nacional. El proceso del V Encuentro es la Iglesia en misión, y se ha empezado ya. Para que se mantengan informados de este evento tan importante, cada mes vamos a traerles noticias de lo que está pasando a nivel nacional y en la Diócesis de Norwich. Ya tenemos el equipo nacional y regional, y las diócesis en todo el país están actualmente en el proceso de formar su equipo diocesano. En diciembre del año pasado, Mons. Cote nombró las personas que forman el equipo de la Diócesis de Norwich. En Abril de este año, los miembros de dicha equipo participaron en un entrenamiento intenso y han preparado su plan de trabajo para los próximos meses.
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Little Sisters Win:
Unanimous SCOTUS Decision a Big Victory for Religious Freedom and abortifacients really constitutes a “compelling governmental interest,” the real argument was whether the administration had chosen the leastrestrictive means. The administration insisted that its “accommodation,” in which the Little Sisters and others had to hire an insurance company that would provide the objectionable coverage, and then soothe their consciences by signing a form, was the least-restrictive means possible. But as the Becket Fund, which represented the Little Sisters, pointed out during oral arguments this past March, the government had to admit that it “did have other ways to deliver the services without using the Little Sister’s plan or forcing them to participate.” This prompted the Court to propose a compromise solution. The Little Sisters, Wheaton College, and the other groups
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By Eric Metaxas big win for religious freedom. On May 15th, the Supreme Court handed a big victory to the Little Sisters of the Poor and other Christian organizations that refused to go along with the HHS contraceptive mandate. To understand why the Supreme Court’s action is good news, a little background is in order. Under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, the law that formed the basis of the Little Sisters’ legal challenge to the HHS Mandate, a federal law that “substantially burdens” religious freedom can only be upheld if it meets the following criteria: it furthers a “compelling governmental interest,” and it furthers that interest in the “least restrictive way” possible. While various parties challenged whether providing free contraception
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Four County
Our FAITH
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Defending Our Religious Liberty June 26, 2016
In Catholic teaching, the Second Vatican Council “declared that the human person has a right to religious freedom. This freedom means that all men are to be immune from coercion on the part of individuals or of social groups and of any human power, in such wise that no one is to be forced to act in a manner contrary to his own beliefs, whether privately or publicly, whether alone or in association with others, within due limits.” (Dignitatis Humanae, No. 2.) If you haven’t done so already, please voice your opposition to the federal health care mandate by calling U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell at 202-2055445, and your elected state representatives. Let them know that the mandate is in violation of our First Amendment right to religious freedom.
Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for JUNE
Universal: Human Solidarity That the aged, marginalized, and those who have no one may find–even within the huge cities of the world–opportunities for encounter and solidarity.
Evangelization: Seminarians and Novices That seminarians and men and women entering religious life may have mentors who live the joy of the Gospel and prepare them wisely for their mission.
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Four County
Our YOUTH Sacred Heart School, Groton
Mr. Lawrence Fitzgerald, Principal 50 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton, CT 860-445-0611 www.sacredheartgroton.org/school
CATHOLIC Sacred Heart School, Taftville
Mother Christina Van Beck, SCMC, Principal 15 Hunters Ave, Taftville, CT
Phone: 860-887-1757 www.sacredhearttaftville.org
St. Edward School, Stafford Springs Mrs. MaryAnne Pelletier, Principal 25 Church St, Stafford Springs, CT Phone: 860-684-2600 www.stedward-stafford.org
St. James School, Danielson
Ms. Monique Almquist, Principal 120 Water St, Danielson, CT Phone: 860-774-3281 www.stjamesdanielson.org
Academic Excellence. Character. Self-Confidence.
Congratulations Graduates
“Catholic education teaches us to have a big heart
and greatness of soul, and to do everything with hearts open to God and open to others.” - Rev. Monsignor Robert L. Brown
By Judy Benson The Day Norwich — The 53 seniors who graduated from Saint Bernard School on May 27th are heading in many different directions — to colleges on the east and west coasts, in Canada and Singapore, and into the military and full-time jobs. But regardless of their future paths, they will all take with them the charge to live
by the principles of altruism instilled in them at Saint Bernard, said Emily De La Cruz of New London, the class orator for the ceremonies at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick. It was the 58th commencement ceremony for the Catholic school, located in Montville. At Saint Bernard, she said, she learned
that, “It’s not about me, that the world needs me. I am part of the bigger picture.” “As we’ve grown, we have added, changed and discarded many ideas to get to where we are today,” she said. “We learned many things in high school ... graduating means using your Saint Bernard education to be successful, to give back to the community that we’ve come from, and to continuously challenge the impossible.” “How lucky I am,” she concluded, “to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” During his remarks, the Rev. Monsignor Robert L.Brown, chancellor of the Diocese of Norwich, urged the graduates to live lives of service to others. “In the words of Pope Francis, don’t be wrapped up in yourselves,” Monsignor
Brown said. “But open your hearts to others, especially those in need.” “Catholic education teaches us to have a big heart and greatness of soul, and to do everything with hearts open to God and open to others,” he said. The graduating class included more than a dozen students from China, most of whom did not attend the ceremony but were conferred diplomas “in abstentia” when their names were announced by Ann Griffin, assistant headmaster. Also among the class were five students whose parents were alumna of the school. Headmaster Donald Macrino told the students that the graduation marks the beginning of their adulthood. “Respect yourself and your family, and charge into the future and make it better,” he told them.
St. Bernard School Welcomes Chinese students eager for a U.S. Education By Martha Shanahan, The Day Norwich — Among the hundreds of parents who gathered in the cathedral for the St. Bernard School graduation
on the afternoon of May 27, Isabelle Yu’s parents were among a small group that had likely traveled the farthest — Shanghai, China is a long way from
Norwich. This year, 14 of the 53 graduates of St. Bernard had moved to Connecticut from China as part of the school’s growing
international program. For eight years, the Catholic middle and high school has marketed itself to the growing population of Chinese teenagers
June/July 2016
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St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale
Ms. Sharon Briere, Principal 26 Main St., N. Grosvenordale, CT Phone: 860-923-2090 www.schoolofstjoseph.org
St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic
Ms. Abby Demars, Principal 35 Valley St, Willimantic, CT Phone: 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org
St. Michael School, Pawcatuck
Mrs. Doris Messina, Principal
63 Liberty St, Pawcatuck, CT Phone: 860-599-1084 www.stmichaelschoolct.com
St. Patrick School, Norwich
Mrs. Catherine Reed, Principal 211 Broadway, Norwich, CT Phone: 860-889-4174 www.st-patrickschoolnorwich.org
Four County
Our YOUTH St. John School, Old Saybrook
Mother Elaine Moorcroft, SCMC, Principal 42 Maynard Road, Old Saybrook, CT Phone: 860-388-0849 www.saintjohnschoolos.com
CATHOLIC St. Joseph School, New London
St. Joseph School, Baltic
St. John Paul II School, Middletown Mrs. Kathleen Pec, Principal 87 South Main St, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-347-2978 www.jpii.org
Sr. Mary Patrick Mulready, SCMC, Principal
Ms. Marianne Cote, Principal 25 Squire St, New London, CT Phone: 860-442-1720 www.sjsnl.com
10 School Hill Road, Baltic, CT Phone: 860-822-6141 www.stjosephbaltic.org
Congratulations to the Xavier High School class of 2016 for so successfully meeting the challenge to use their God-given talents in service to others.
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he highest ranking member of the graduating class to give the formal farewell to his classmates was Frederick Van Augur, the son of Frederick and Karin Augur of Northford, CT. As one would expect, Van’s academic credentials as the number one-ranked senior are numerous and distinctive including the Brother Celestine Award, Xavier’s most prestigious academic honor. Every teacher and guidance counselor who wrote recommendations for Van highlighted an outstanding personal trait – his humility.
One teacher said “He will be successful wherever he goes to college and he will achieve greatness in life. He will enhance the lives of those around him and make the world a better place by his actions.” This fall Van Augur will attend the University of Connecticut in the honors program. The 2016 salutatorian for the 50th graduating class at Xavier: Jameson Kief, the son of James and Shannon Kief of Plantsville, CT, is ranked # 2 academically in his class. Let the words of Jameson’s teachers and counselors explain partly
why he is so deserving of this honor. “I have watched this young man explode with leadership on our campus. I would describe him as passionate, incredibly bright, down to earth, and a tenacious worker in all aspects of life. For energy, innovation, motivation, and talent, Jameson is your man. However, his greatest contribution will undoubtedly be the unbridled enthusiasm he has
demonstrated over the years as one of the founding members of Xavier’s robotics team – the Full- Metal Falcons. This fall Jameson will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, majoring in biomedical engineering and cognitive science.
Middletown’s Mercy High School Class Of 2016 Becomes 50th Graduating Class
Shawn R. Beals MIDDLETOWN — The 50th class of Mercy High School graduated 158 adding to the more than 8,000 alumni since the school’s dedication in 1965. “As we celebrate the 50th commencement of Mercy High School, I cannot think of any class who better represents and epitomizes the dream of Bishop (Vincent J.) Hines who started the
campaign to build Mercy and Xavier high schools in the 1960s,” said Sister Mary A. McCarthy, president of Mercy High School. “I am not sure that even he could have imagined the beauty, compassion, intelligence, dignity and goodness of you young women of Mercy sitting in front of us tonight.” Sister McCarthy called the students “a gift” to their parents, to faculty and
staff, to their classmates and to the church because of their extracurricular work and academic achievements. Valedictorian Madeline Jenkins said she vividly remembers arriving at Mercy as a freshwoman to a warm welcome from seniors at the time. “Mercy has taught me to find my own confidence, my own strengths, work with my weaknesses and develop my
spirituality in a community environment, much like an individual flower in a garden.” During the graduation ceremony, June 2, 2016, in the high school auditorium, McCarthy recognized Carolyn Garofoli, who has retired after nearly 50 years as a teacher, coach and guidance counselor. Bishop Cote said, “So I encourage you. Do not neglect your faith and your inner
St. Bernard School, Uncasville
Mr. Donald Macrino, Headmaster 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke, Uncasville, CT Phone: 860-848-1271 www.saint-bernard.com
Academy of the Holy Family, Baltic
Mother Mary David, SCMC, Principal 54 West Main St, Baltic, CT Phone: 860-822-9272 www.ahfbaltic.org
Marianapolis Preparatory School, Thompson
Mr. Joseph Hanrahan, Headmaster 26 Chase Road, Thompson, CT Phone: 860-923-9565 www.marinapolis.org
Mercy High School, Middletown
Mary McCarthy, RSM, President 1740 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-346-6659 www.mercyhigh.com
Xavier High School, Middletown
Brother Brian Davis, C.F.X, Headmaster Mr. Brendan Donohue, Principal 181 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-346-7735 www.xavierhighschool.org
June/July 2016
-continued from page 28
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Four County
Our YOUTH
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Diocese Appoints New Superintendent of Schools
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Norwich he Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich has announced that Mr. Henry Fiore Jr., has been appointed Superintendent of Diocesan Schools, Diocese of Norwich, effective 1 July 2016. Mr. Fiore will succeed current Superintendent, Dr. Edward J. Shine Ed.D., who will retire effective 30 June 2016, having served as Superintendent since 1 January 2013. Mr. Fiore has been the principal of St. Pius X School in Westerly, Rhode Island since 2005, where he also teaches Italian. From July 2000 to June 2005, Mr. Fiore led the Monsignor Matthew F. Clarke Catholic Regional School in Wakefield, Rhode Island. Previously, he was principal of CranstonJohnston Catholic Regional School in Cranston, Rhode Island from 1998 through
2000. He has also been a special instructor/ lecturer of languages at the University of Rhode Island. In 2005, Mr. Fiore was named by the Diocese of Providence as Distinguished Principal of the Year. He also has a special interest and expertise in autism, and is an autism consultant. Mr. Fiore has a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Italian and a minor in Spanish, a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Education and a Master of Arts degree in Education, all from the University of Rhode Island. He has also completed graduate work in administration and curriculum at Providence College. Bishop Cote welcomes Mr. Fiore as “...a highly experienced and proven Catholic educator who has a deep understanding of how our Catholic schools work and the special challenges and opportunities before us.” Bishop Cote also expressed the gratitude of the entire Diocese WWW.GERARDIONLINE.COM for the vital contributions of Dr. Edward J. Shine who so successfully focused on improving instruction and professional development of our teachers. “Under Dr. Shine, the school system stabilized and positioned itself to be a continuing source of faithful educational excellence,” said Bishop Cote.
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Pope Francis to author new book answering teens’ questions
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Vatican City, (CNA/EWTN News) fter becoming the first Pope to author a children’s book earlier this year, Pope Francis will soon come out with another, based on his responses to questions posed by youth through a new online platform. Speaking at the May 27-29 World Encounter of the Directors of Scholas Occurrentes, Italian journalist and author Tiziana Lupi explained the idea behind the new book, which she said seeks to “open a door” to dialogue with youth. Scholas was founded by Pope Francis in August 2013 as an initiative to encourage social integration and the culture of encounter through technology, arts and sports. The foundation has organized several events at the Vatican, including two Google hangout sessions with Pope Francis, as well as 2014’s interreligious Match for Peace. Both Richard Gere and George Clooney were
present for the May 29 meeting between the Pope and participants in the encounter. Lupi, who works with Italian editorial Mondadori, said May 29 that the publication has joined efforts with Scholas in creating a new technological platform “which allows all youth from all over the world, all social classes, to ask Pope Francis a question without filters.” While it’s generally journalists who ask the questions, this time it will be the youth who open their hearts to the Pope through the new webpage“Ask Pope Francis,” which is already up and running. Since there will obviously be too many questions to include all of them in the book, only certain question will be selected. We will select the ones that seem more from the heart and which allow Pope Francis to touch on topics he hasn’t been able to until today,” Lupi said, adding that the book will likely be released sometime in October or November.
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Four County
Our YOUTH -continued from page 27
Middletown’s Mercy High School Class Of 2016
“If you are to be
well-grounded and focused, you must continue to develop inner freedom and a spirit of service which can only come about through your ongoing inner spiritual formation,
June/July 2016
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life. Seek to love the Lord more and more daily. A good life is answering God’s call.” The Class of 2016 salutatorians are Natalie Davoodi and Mackenzie Pias, both accomplished students and star athletes. “I’ll forever be grateful that I was able to be a part of a community of acceptance where each faculty member and student was willing to lend a helping hand whether they knew you or not,” Davoodi said.
St. Bernard School -continued fron page 24 who want to come to school in the U.S. as early as possible. For members of the middle class in China who want their children to go to college in the U.S., an American private high school diploma gives them a head start on their applications. “They helped me on my college essay. I took four AP classes, and on most of them I got a good score,” said Lawrence Liang, who also graduated from St. Bernard. “Now I know more about American culture, like how to use YouTube or how to find resources when you’re doing a research paper,” he added. Liang, who is from the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, applied to 11 colleges from St. Bernard and will start in the fall at the University of California - Irvine and will major in biomedical engineering. “I’m prepared,” he said. St. Bernard is far from the only school to realize the demand and develop programs to entice Chinese students to its halls. According to U.S. Immigration and Customs numbers that the Boston Globe reported in March, the population of international students in New England went from more than 9,000 in 2010 to nearly 14,000 in 2015. In Connecticut alone, that number reached 3,548 last year. “I think just about all of the private schools are looking to have involvement with international students,” said Donald Macrino, who has been the headmaster at St. Bernard since 2014. Marketing the school to teenagers eager to start on their American educations has proved mutually beneficial, Macrino said. Catherine Brown, the director of St. Bernard’s international program, said she started cautiously.. “I entered the international world very carefully,” Brown said. She began by choosing one agency, eventually building up relationships with a network of seven agencies with offices in China and the U.S.
All seven are certified by the Council of Standards in International Education, she said. “Whatever agency that I worked with had to be certified to make sure that their standards were acceptable to us and under the rules of the State Department,” she said. Brown has also visited the agencies and schools St. Bernard applicants attend. She plans to go back at least once this year, she said. “I had a better idea of who the students were, where they were coming from, and what their expectations were to see if it would be a good fit,” she said. The school has accepted 14 more Chinese students who will start at St. Bernard this fall. For now, Brown said, the cap of 45 international students won’t be growing. “That’s a very strong number for us,” she said. All the students interviewed said they were glad they came, despite some initial culture shock. The agencies that helped them apply to St. Bernard also placed them with host families in the area, an experience junior Karen Liu said helped her adjust. Macrino said he and Brown organized group lunches with some of the school’s Chinese students and encouraged events like a Chinese New Year celebration, complete with dumplings and a dragon in the school’s front lobby. “I think we’re trying to bring the two cultures closer together so that they can learn more from each other,” he said. “Catholic schools have changed, and they have progressed wonderfully,” Headmaster Macrino said. “They have opened their arms to all members of society ... and I think that’s a wonderful thing.” Macrino, who spent decades of his career in public schools before taking over the top position at St. Bernard two years ago, said it’s St. Bernard’s
Isabelle Yu, right, with classmate Marissa Fratoni, try to coax a smile out of Yu’s sister Alexandria, 18-months, as the St. Bernard School class of 2016 gets ready for the school’s fiftyeighth commencement exercises Friday, May 27, 2016 at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich. (Sean D. Elliot/The Day)
reputation for providing a highquality education, not its religious underpinnings, that is drawing scores of Chinese students to apply. “When you look at those ideas of kindness and compassion and service to the community ... a rigorous curriculum, a sense of family — those have international appeal,” he said. “I think that our Chinese students respond to those just as well as our Catholic students do.”
Four County
Our YOUTH
CATHOLIC
Class President, Impressive Student and Citizen
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By Judy Benson The Day Montville — sk Saint Bernard School senior Will Dittman how to improve living conditions in Guatemala, and he doesn’t hesitate to answer. “I would restructure the system of education to enable children to receive a higher education, and enforce rules for the workforce so that people, even children, aren’t taken away from their families and forced to work in harsh conditions,” Dittman, 18, said one morning earlier this month, near the end of his PowerPoint presentation about the Central American country for his social justice and theology class. That Dittman, who lives in Stonington and has graduated from SBS, should enunciate such a succinct and focused remedy for the small, impoverished nation of 12 million — with more than its share
of complex economic, environmental and social problems — shows some of the traits that distinguish him. President of his class for the past two years, Dittman is seen as a natural leader who understands and articulates what needs to be done to accomplish a particular goal. “I feel like I have a business head, and I like leadership and negotiating,” he said. Along with his leadership skills, Jim Leone, teacher in the social justice class, has noticed Dittman’s ability to connect with all different kinds of students at the school, as well as the enthusiasm he brings to academic and extra-curricular pursuits. A member of the Avalonia Land Conservancy and hiker who also enjoys boating to Sandy Point and Fishers Island with his family, the younger Dittman hopes to combine his interest in the environment and in business by
majoring in business management and environmental studies at Roger Williams College in Bristol, R.I. He hopes of one day becoming a corporate sustainability officer. Leone, his theology teacher, foresees him going further. “In 10 years, he’ll be running his own business in renewable energy,” he predicted. “When I first came to Saint Bernard, I hated art. I didn’t understand it,” he said. “But Mrs. Kainz (Lorraine Kainz, his art teacher), she started a fire in me.” He’s taken an art class all four years at the school, has become a member of the Art Honor Society and hopes to continue honing his drawing and painting skills in college. “It’s a great skill to have, and a great de-stressor when I’m studying for exams,” he said. “I’m really into drawing nature — animals and landscapes.”
St. Bernard senior Will Dittman.
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Our YOUTH
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Celebrating World Youth Day in Connecticut by Linda Norton
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f you are a teen in 7th – 12th grade looking for a memorable summer experience you’ll want to attend Connecticut’s World Youth Day (WYD) which will be held on Saturday, July 23rd from 1:00 – 5:00 PM at St. Mary’s Church, Portland, CT. The event is sponsored by our Diocese; and teens from all over Connecticut and beyond will be participating. We’d like a good showing from our diocese, so please make every effort to register. You might even seriously consider begging your parish or parents to bring you to this event – it will be that good! In his shepherdly way, Pope Francis knew that even though there would be
millions of youth at the international WYD in Krakow, Poland this July, there would still be many who would not be able to attend, so he encouraged all dioceses in the world to plan their own WYD. Upon hearing the Pope’s request, Bishop Caggiano, the Bishop of Bridgeport, the World Youth Day Liaison for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), addressed his
brother bishops and encouraged them to plan World Youth Day celebrations. According to Liza Roach, our diocesan Youth Minister, Bishop Cote stepped up and the diocese of Norwich became an official sponsor for a World Youth Day event. Liza reached out to area dioceses and has been working with Shawnee Baldwin, Coordinator of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of Hartford, to plan this first ever event for our teens. Our Diocesan Youth Council members will also be helping at the event.
Our World Youth Day theme is “Bridges of Mercy” to compliment the Jubilee Year of Mercy which was initiated by Pope Francis. The day
will include presentations by Cooper Ray, a nationally known Catholic speaker and musician from Texas who has ministered at the National Catholic Youth Conference, and Jerusalem Road, a Connecticut based Catholic Praise and Worship ministry. Cross Catholic Outreach will lead an interactive Mercy project. Bishop Cote will celebrate Mass. World Youth Day is an enthusiastic event, but it is also a pilgrimage - a spiritual journey that helps us grow in faith and which can involve some sacrifice. So if you are someone who wants to attend but might consider Portland a little too far from your hometown, then this is a great opportunity to embrace the travel distance as part of your pilgrimage experience! All parishes are encouraged to bring their youth to WYD Connecticut, but teens can also register individually. The fee is $ 15.00 per person. For more information call the Diocese of Norwich’s Office of Faith Events at 860-848-2237.
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