Four County Catholic October 2011

21st Annual Blue Mass

Volume 23 Number 9

October 2011

Honoring Those Who Serve & Protect Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich September 25, 2011

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

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Four County Catholic October 2011

You’ve got to care more for the other person than you care for yourself sometimes.

I think that’s what my folks have.

12 Four County

atholic

- Herve Desrosiers speaking of his dad, Herve Senior, and his mom, Lillian on the occasion of their 75th wedding aniversary at Sacred Heart Church, in Taftville.

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

If we truly want to live the way Christ wants us to live, we must shed the media view of the world and delve into the teachings of our faith.

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- Teresa Tomeo , TV host, on overcoming her self image problems propogated by media imagery.

Established in 1989 and published each month except July.

Publisher

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

860.887.9294

Editorial Office

31 Perkins Avenue, Norwich, CT 06360-3613

Fax 860.859.1253

Director of Communications/Executive Editor

Teachers must lead their students and guide them not simply by, ‘filling their head with facts’, but by helping them to develop within themselves the qualities that God has already instilled in them.

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Michael Strammiello, 860.887.3933

com@norwichdiocese.net

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Trina Fulton, 860.886.1281

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Theological Advisor

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- Very Reverend Dennis M. Perkins, Vicar for Clergy, Diocese of Norwich and Pastor of St. Michael Church in Pawcatuck, delivering homily at Mass for Those Dedicated to Education.

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commeredith@norwichdiocese.net

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While all persons merit our full respect, no other relationships provide for the common good what marriage between husband and wife provides – The law should reflect this reality.

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- Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan, President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, advocating for the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).

We thank God for our faith, family and your call to serve our community

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- Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, acknowledging the faithful service of law enforcement professionals at the 2011 Blue Mass.

Movie “Courageous,”as reviewed in June, 2011 Four County Catholic, now at a theater near you. Excellent film about law enforcement and Christian faith.

FREE to Annual Catholic Appeal contributors and upon request to registered Catholics in the Diocese of Norwich, $20 per year for all others. Individual copies are $1 each.

Editorial & Advertising Deadlines

The deadline for advertising is the second Monday of the preceding month. (Discount rate available to Diocesan-sponsored ministries and programs.) The editorial deadline is the third Monday of the preceding month.

Articles limited to 500-word max; letters to the editor limited to 200-word max and must include name, address and phone number for verification.

Email photos as Jpeg attachments and MS Word copy to comtrina@norwichdiocese.net or fax to 860.859.1253. Publication not guaranteed. The Editor reserves the right to reject, omit or edit all editorial and advertising copy. Published opinions and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of this newspaper.

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Four County Catholic October 2011

The Most Reverend

Michael R. Cote, D.D.

Bishop of Norwich

We Are People of Hope My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ: It comes as no surprise, I’m sure, that this newspaper’s coverage of the tenth anniversary of 9/11 generated more reader response than we have ever had. It is an emotional subject, even after 10 years have passed. Its full impact on our lives and our Country hasn’t yet been fully realized. We are still profoundly affected by the events of that horrific day and still learning to follow the light of hope forward a day at a time. We are people of hope.

These ten years later, the Country remains engaged in military actions in the Middle East and is mired at home in a deep economic crisis. These two troubling realities are not unrelated. The extremists responsible for the 9/11 attacks chose among their targets a towering symbol of Western economy, the World Trade Center. The test of any society is its economic strength and its moral and social sensibilities. The American national character is being severely tested. On all levels, the Catholic

Church is fully committed to advancing Christ’s message of hope above fear and His message of dignity and respect for all, including as equal partners the poor and the vulnerable.

It occurred to me that it might be helpful to reflect on the many ways the Catholic Church is working so hard to help lift those caught in the struggle. At the national level, your bishops, united in voice through the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), have been diligently corresponding with Congressional Committees in support of Catholic principles to help our brothers and sisters in need. In a recent communiqué to the Joint Congressional Select Committee on Deficit Reduction, the USCCB forcefully spoke out against any future cuts that would rely disproportionately on reducing essential services for the poor such as affordable housing, child nutrition or healthcare.

These communications to Congress have become more regular and more urgent as the recession

continues. As a leading voice of moral conscience, the Church is right there making sure the crisis is viewed in human terms. Unemployment and underemployment must be seen not just as statistics but as the cause of great psychological and spiritual suffering. As the Holy Father Pope Benedict reminds us, “The economic crisis is both financial and ethical in its makeup and must be dealt with on both levels to achieve lasting resolution.” The Church is resolute and tireless in advocating an ethical view of reducing joblessness, promoting economic growth, overcoming poverty and in encouraging human compassionate and healing through this long ordeal.

At the diocesan level, we are intensely committed to carrying out the ministry of Christ right here at home. One of the goals of this newspaper, the diocesan website, our new Facebook page and other regular communications is to keep you informed as to how the diocesan ministries are helping families through the difficult times. In last

month’s Four County Catholic, we provided updates on the Catholic Foundation having presented 330 grants primarily to families wishing to have their children receive a Catholic education. There were also updates on scholarships for students in Haiti, recent activities sponsored by Catholic Charities, the special mission of Mount St. John School in Deep River and some expansive new initiatives by the Knights of Columbus to help with food and shelter. In Norwich and Middletown, the St. Vincent DePaul soup kitchens and food pantries are serving and delivering record numbers of meals. These programs are typical of how so many of you are generously helping so many of your neighbors.

Please be aware of these initiatives and spread the word to those caught in the economic turmoil that the Church is here for them.

As these extraordinary economic times continue, the Diocese will continue to explore additional opportunities to help provide food, shelter, household management, behavioral counseling and other

vital support and survival services.

True to our commitment to the poor and under-served, the Catholic Church is the second largest social services provider in our communities – second only to collective government assistance programs. We will not rest. We will do more.

When we realize how unsettled the world and economic conditions are at the moment, we should give pause to how important prayer is now and always. We are a community of faith with the ability to support each other through caring parishes and ministries; and we are a community of prayer. Prayer can move mountains. Prayer can heal. Prayers can hasten the recovery from the turmoil and conflict. May our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, graciously receive our prayers for a peaceful and just society in His name.

God bless you for your kind, generous and hopeful spirit.

Sincerely yours in Christ’s love, Bishop Michael R. Cote

Somos Gente de Esperanza Queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo: Estoy seguro que no llega de sorpresa, que esta cobertura de periódico de el décimo aniversario de 9/11 generó en los lectores más respuestas de las que nunca hemos tenido. Incluso, después que han pasado 10 años es un asunto emocional. El impacto entero en nuestras vidas y en nuestro País todavía no ha sido completamente realizado. Aún nosotros estamos profundamente afectados por los eventos de ese día horroroso y todavía estamos aprendiendo a seguir la luz de esperanza hacia adelante un día a la vez. Somos

gente de esperanza.

Diez años más tarde el País permanence involucrado en acciones militares en el Medio Oriente y en la patria enlodado en una profunda crisis económica. Estas dos realidades problemáticas no están sin relación. Los extremistas responsables por los ataques de 9/11 eligieron, entre sus blancos unas torres símbolos de la economía Occidental, el Centro de Comercio Mundial. La prueba de cualquier sociedad está en su fuerza económica y en su sensibilidad moral y social.

El carácter nacional Americano está siendo probado severamente. La

Iglesia Católica está completamente comprometida en todos los niveles a avanzar por encima del temor con el mensaje de Cristo de esperanza y su mensaje de dignidad y respeto por todos incluyendo como copartícipes iguales el pobre y el vulnerable.

Se me ocurrió que podría ser útil reflexionar sobre muchas formas en que la Iglesia Católica está trabajando con ahínco para ayudar a reanimar a aquellos atrapados en la lucha. En el nivel nacional, en apoyo a los principios Católicos sus Obispos a través de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos (USCCB, por sus siglas en

inglés) han estado esmeradamente correspondiendo con los comités congresionales para ayudar a nuestros hermanos y hermanas en necesidad. En un reciente comunicado a el comité de Junta Congresional Selecta en la reducción de déficit , la (USCCB, por sus siglas en inglés) forzadamente habló en contra de cualquier reducción futura que desproporcionadamente dependa en reducir servicios esenciales para los pobres como vivienda accessible, nutrición infantil o servicios de salud.

Como la recesión continúa estas comunicaciones al congreso han

sido más regulares y más urgentes.

Como una voz principal a la conciencia moral, la Iglesia esta allí asegurándose que la crisis esté vista en términos humanos. El deseempleo y el bajo empleo deben ser vistos no sólo como estadísticas pero como la causa de gran sufrimiento psicológico y espiritual . Como el Santo Padre Papa Benedicto nos recuerda “En su recuperación la crisis económica es ambas , financiera y ética y debe ser tratada en ambos niveles para lograr resoluciones duraderas”. Incansable y resuelta la Iglesia está aconsejando una opinión Esperanza Cont. on page 4

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Four County Catholic October 2011

Esparanza

21st Annual Red Mass The Most Reverend Richard J. Malone, D.D., Bishop of Portland, speaking as visiting Homilist at 21st Annual Red Mass, October 2, 2011, Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich.

Continued from page 3

ética de reducción a la falta de trabajo, promoviendo el crecimiento económico, superando la pobreza y alentando en compasión humana y sanando a través de esta larga prueba rigurosa.

A nivel Diocesano, nosotros estamos intensamente comprometidos a llevar el ministerio de Cristo aquí en casa. Una de las metas de este periódico, de el sitio de web diocesano, de nuestra página de facebook y otras comunicaciones normales es mantenerlo informado de como los ministerios diocesanos están ayudando a familias a través de tiempos difíciles. En el último mes de Four County Catholic, proporcionamos actualizados de la Fundación Católica habiendo presentado 330 becas primariamente a familias deseosas de que sus niños reciban una educación Católica. También, hay actualizados de becas escolares para estudiantes en Haiti, recientes actividades patrocinadas por Caridad Católica , la misión especial de Mount St. John School en Deep

River y algunas iniciativas expansivas por los Caballeros de Colón para ayudar con alimentos y refugio. En Norwich y en Midletown, el comedor comunitario de St. Vincent DePaul y las dispensas de comida, estan sirviendo y entregando números records de alimentos. Estos programas son típicos porque muchos de ustedes están ayudando generosamente a muchos de sus vecinos. Por favor sea conciente de estas iniciativas y difunda la palabra que la Iglesia, esta aquí para aquellos que están atrapados por la confusión económica.

Como extraordinariamente estos tiempos económicos continúan, la Diócesis continuará explorando oportunidades adicionales para ayudar a proporcionar comida, refugio , administración de asilos , consejería de conducta y otros servicios y apoyos vitales de supervivencia.

Fieles a nuestro compromiso con los pobres y con los de bajos recursos, la Iglesia Católica es el segundo servicio social más largo en asistir a nuestras

comunidades—sólo segundo a programas de ayuda colectiva de gobierno. No descansaremos. Haremos más.

Al darnos cuenta que las condiciones económicas en el mundo son inciertas en este momento, deberíamos dar una pausa en que importante es la oración ahora y siempre. Somos una comunidad de fé con la habilidad de apoyarnos unos a otros a través de parroquias y ministerios y somos una comunidad de oración. La oración puede mover montañas. La oración puede sanar.

Las oraciones pueden apresurar la recuperación de la confusión y conflicto. Que nuestro Señor y Salvador, Jesucristo, reciba con agrado nuestras oraciones para que en su nombre tengamos una sociedad justa y pacífica.

Que Dios le bendiga por su espiritu bondadoso , generoso y servicial.

Sinceramente en el amor de Cristo, Obispo Michael R. Cote

ST. EDMUND’S RETREAT Retreats Days of Recollection October 19 And Know That I Am God with Cynthia Giardina St. Edmund’s at Enders Island

November 1 All Saint’s Day - with Sr. Eugenia Brady, S.J.C.

Weekend Retreats October 14-16 Women’s Weekend with Sr. Eugenia Brady, S.J.C.

For further information call:

860.536.0565

Or visit www.endersisland.com

October 28-30 Called to be Good News - Deacon Couples with Deacon Leo and Edna Donoghue November 18-20 Men’s 11th Step on the Rock Recovery Weekend - with Deacon Paul G.

Guided Retreats October 16-21 Values, Attitudes and Choices - A guided retreat with Sr. Eugenia Brady, S.J.C.

St. Michael’s Institute of Sacred Art Join us while we explore the history, the sacred nature and the techniques of the Sacred Arts in a prayerful manner.

November 6-13 Icon Writing in the Russian Style

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Four County Catholic October 2011

Director of Priestly Vocations

Reverend Gregory Galvin

Perpetual Adoration Chapels Come and Pray for Priests!

Life is very busy. For many, from early in the morning to late at night the constant need to be somewhere, talking with someone, returning calls, texts, emailing, blogging, twittering, doing the laundry, keeping up on Facebook, preparing meals, paying bills, doing homework, answering mail, transporting the children to the next activity, visiting family, volunteering in the community, interviewing for a job, and it goes on and on and on! I thought the boom of technology was supposed to give us more time to spend with each other! I thought technology was going to improve the quality of life? Well?

Actually technology certainly does have many advantages to making things easier and more accessible, but it is not a be-all and end-all solution. The one thing we must never forget is the importance of quiet time in each person’s life. It is hard for people, young or old to find quiet time!

But it is not impossible, and this is why we who live in eastern Connecticut and in the Diocese of Norwich are very fortunate! We have places of quiet prayer that are open to us all perpetually, twenty four hours a day, seven

days a week; and another place is soon to be available.

Of course I am referring to the six different Eucharistic Adoration Chapels around the Diocese of Norwich located in the following areas; St. John Church in Cromwell, St. Mark Church in Westbrook, St. Mary Church in Coventry, Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Gales Ferry, St. Mary Church in Putnam, and the chapel at the Friary of the O.M.I. in Griswold. At any one of the above mentioned chapels a person is able to spend very personal one on one time with our Eucharistic Lord, Jesus. Many people around the diocese already take advantage of this wonderfully enriching and life giving opportunity for their own personal prayer and to pray

for others. It is always time well spent.

A new perpetual adoration chapel is being formed now at Enders’ Island in Mystic.

Help make this effort a success!

Make a pilgrimage either as an individual, as a couple, or as a family to specifically pray for your priest, your pastor, your chaplain, a priest friend, a retired priest and for your future priests. God will reward each sacrifice that is made out of love for Him, His Church, and His priests!

To get on the schedule and more actively participate on a regular basis, call either Dave Craig at 860.739.4607 or Mike Pettini at 860.460.4615 or through email at: adoration4priests@ gmail.com.

Holy Hour for Vocations The Holy Hour for Vocations is held in a different deanery and parish each month. Bishop Cote will lead the prayers of the Holy Hour each month. The schedule is as follows: Oct. 20 Nov. 17 Dec. 15

St. Mary, Willimantic Mary Mother of the Redeemer, Groton Our Lady of the Lakes, Oakdale

7-8pm 7-8pm 5-6pm

“I called My friends because I have told you everything I have heard from My Father. It was not you who chose Me, but I who chose you (your name here) and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in My Name…

...He will give you!” (John 15:15-17) Prayer and Discernment Board Meetings Monday, October 3, 2011 at 11:15 AM Spiritual Renewal Services Center Day of Renewal 35TH Anniversary of Spiritual Renewal Services Theme: “This is Our Faith” Guest Speaker: Mr. Mike Cumbie, Catholic Evangelist Saturday, October 15, 2011 at 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Cathedral of St. Patrick Auditorium, 213 Broadway, Norwich, CT 06360 Bring lunch – beverages provided. Free-will offering.

Springfield Diocese Charismatic Retreat OCT 28-30 Holy Family Retreat Center - Father Ray Introvigne and Mrs. Judith Hughes. For more INFO or to register call Lorraine Bernier at 1-413-547-0118 Television Mass Wednesday, November 2, 2011 at 10:00 AM Channel 20 WTXX • Celebrant: Fr. Ray Introvigne Philip Retreat Weekend Saturday, November 5, 2011 and Sunday, November 6, 2011 Spiritual Renewal Services Center (Pre-registration is required by calling 1-860-887-0702.)

Combined Prayer Meeting Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at 7:30 PM St. Mary Church, 51 Freestone Avenue, Portland, CT 06480 Prayer, Praise, Worship and Adoration Every Tuesday, 7:00 PM Spiritual Renewal Services Center

Norwich, CT (860) 887-7468 www.mmpct.com New London, CT (860) 701-9171 www.mmpnl.com

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

Spiritual Renewal Services Diocese of Norwich

Dial A Prayer (860) 887-7767 P.O. Box 6, 11 Bath St. Norwich, CT 06360 (860) 887-0702 Email: Renewal@catholicweb.com

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Four County Catholic October 2011

Every Tuesday Night • 7:00pm Spiritual Renewal Services Center Prayer, Praise, Worship & Adoration Thursdays, Oct. 6, 2011 & Oct. 13 Intro to Liturgy and Sacraments This four hour program is split into two evenings. For Catholics, the seven sacraments are the signs and symbols through which we encounter Christ. These sessions will look at sacraments and liturgy in general, and then the seven sacraments of the church in particular. Open to ALL Catholics and can be used for 4 hours towards certification. The presenter is Sr. Elissa Rinere, C.P. Both evenings will be held on the lower level of Cathedral of St. Patrick, 213 Broadway, Norwich. The cost of $15 covers both evenings and materials. Pre-register with Office of Faith Events, Marge Vanner, 860-848-2237 ext. 312 or faithevents@norwichdiocese.net.

Thursday, October 13 The Amazing Grace Challenge Thursday, October 13, 2010, from 5:00pm-7:00pm at the Monsignor M. Davitt Fox Parish Center at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Middletown. It will feature a soup supper, consisting of eight different soups, donated by area restaurants, caterers and churches. For more information about the Amazing Challenge, please email kjgiuf@yahoo.com or call 860-614-6814.

Friday-Sunday, October14-16 Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat Weekends If you are silently grieving after an abortion; healing, forgiveness and peace can have a beginning with a Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat. Rachel’s Vineyard is for women and men who have been struggling with emotional and spiritual pain.

All inquiries are confidential. Retreat October 7-9, 2011 in Farmington, call Mary at 203-882-1326. Retreat October14-16. 2011 in Westerly, RI, call Carol Owens in Providence at 401-4217833 ext.118. Rachel’s Vineyard www.rachelsvineyard.org “Project Rachel” is also a Diocesan outreach for anyone in need of healing. Priests in “Project Rachel” can help you find peace, healing and forgiveness. Call 860889-8307 or 800-554-5173, all inquiries are confidential.

Saturday, October 15, 2011 35TH Anniversary of Spiritual Renewal Services A day of Renewal. This year’s theme is “This is Our Faith” with guest Speaker Mike Cumbie, Catholic Evangelist at the Cathedral of St. Patrick Auditorium, 213 Broadway, Norwich, from 9:00am4:00pm. Bring your lunch – beverages provided. Free-will offering.

Clergy Appointments The Most Reverend Michael R Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, has made the following clergy appointments in the Diocese of Norwich: Reverend George Biju Kadappuraththayil, OCD, new to the Diocese, to Temporary Parochial Vicar, Saint Joseph Parish, New London. Effective: August 1, 2011.

John J. O’Neill, MS, Temporary Administrator, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Brooklyn, while continuing as Pastor of Saint James Parish in Danielson.

Effective: September 6, 2011.

Reverend Robert Buongirno, from Parochial Vicar, Saint Mary, Star of the Sea Parish, New London, to Temporary Administrator, of St. John the Evangelist Parish, Uncasville; Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Quaker Hill; Our Lady of the Lakes Parish, Oakdale. Effective: September 29, 2011.

~ Monsignor Robert L. Brown, Chancellor ~

Saturday, Oct 15 Youth Ministry101 Training Day RESCHEDULED from Sept. for ANYONE interested in bringing a youth ministry program to your parish. If you don’t want your youth to be left-out of your parish community, come to Our Lady of the Lakes Parish Center at 752 Norwich-Salem Tpke. (Rte. 82), Oakdale from 9-4 PM. To Register call the Office of Faith Events 860-848-2237 x311.

Sunday, October 16 A Touch and Taste of Haiti Presented by State Representative Tim Ackert at 1265 Main Street, Coventry at 4:00pm (upstairs from Meet Me on Main) with Barbara Charland and John Bouley. We’re serving chef-prepared Haitian food and offering crafts and paintings from Haiti. Donations to benefit children supported by Outreach to Haiti will be greatly appreciated! Must RSVP by October 10, 2011 by calling Barbara at 860-742-9378; or barbchar623@charter.net. (see page 19) Saturday, October 22 St. Joseph School 7th Annual Oktoberfest and Harvest Dinner Come and taste your favorites and maybe some new ones. Gather your friends and reserve your table. Join us at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Rt. 12, in N. Grosvenordale. Dinner will be served at 6:30pm and includes sausage, kielbasa, and a roast beef buffet with a beer tasting to follow. Tickets are $30.00 per person or $50.00 per couple. Dinner only is $20.00 per person. There will be a silent action as well. Tickets will be available at the door. For more information please call the school office at 860923-2090.

Saturday, October 22 4th Annual CT Catholic Men’s Conference This year’s great event will be held at St. Dominic’s Church in Southington from 9:00pm-6:00pm. Speakers include Randy Raus, President of Life Teen.

Tickets are $30.00 and may be purchased on‐line at www.CTCatholicMen.org or by calling David Craig at 860‐739‐4607. Lunch is included this year in the price as well as free coffee, water, etc. Come join hundreds of CT Catholic men for this once a year event. (see page 16) Wednesday, October 26 Memorial Mass The Middletown District Council of Catholic Women will celebrate a Memorial Mass for its deceased members. Rev. James Sucholet, new District Moderator, will celebrate the Mass at 7:00pm at the Queen of the Apostles Chapel, on the grounds of the Holy Apostles College and Seminary in Cromwell. The Mass is

open to the public and all are invited.

Following the Mass there will be short presentation with refreshments.

Friday-Sunday, October 28-30 Engaged Encounter Weekend One of the most important parts of your wedding planning is your marriage preparation program. Engaged Encounter is a weekend-long program and meets all the aspects of marriage preparation required by the Diocese. Engaged Encounter weekends: October 28-30, 2011 at Immaculata Retreat House, Willimantic call (860)536-8665. Early registration is advised. Or visit www.engagedencounter.org.

Fridays, October 7, 14, 21, 28 Marriage Preparation Class for Engaged Couples “God’s Plan for a Joy-filled Marriage” offered by the Office of Family Life. To register for the 4 session class please call 860-889-8346 ext.283. Time: 7:00pm – 9:15pm. Location: Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Hall, 1650 Route 12, Gales Ferry, CT. Cost: $50.00 per couple Friday-Sunday, October 28-30 Springfield Diocese Charismatic Retreat Holy Family Retreat Center, West Hartford. Presenters are Father Ray Introvigne and Judith Hughes. For more information or to register, please call Lorraine Bernier at 413-547-0118.

Friday-Sunday, November 4-6 Mystery Trip Live An event for junior and high school aged youth. Adults, other lay ministers and religious will also enjoy. Includes a full feature length movie and time for prayer and adoration. Come to a screening near you: Friday 7:00 pm at St Mary, Putnam, Saturday 7:00pm at St Patrick Church, Mystic, and Sunday 2:00 pm at the Church of Holy Family, Hebron.

Admission is $10 per person and includes refreshments. Register by calling Office of Faith Events, Marge Vanner, 860-848-2237 ext 312 or faithevents@norwichdiocese.net Saturday-Sunday, November 5-6 Philip Retreat Weekend Spiritual Renewal Services Center, 11 Bath Street, Norwich. The fee for the weekend is $25.00 per person. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register please call 860-887-0702.

Saturday, November 5 “Sleigh Bells Ring” Christmas Fair The annual St. Pius X “Sleigh Bells Ring” Christmas Fair will be held from 10:00am – 7:00pm in the St. Pius X Bill Fortin Memorial Hall, 310 Westfield St. Middletown. Doors open promptly at 10:00am. There is no admission fee.

Featured booths include Arts and Crafts, Tea Cup Raffle, Plants, Stuffed Animals,

Silver & Gold Jubilee Anniversary Mass Sunday, October 16 Inviting all couples married 25 & 50 years, also those celebrating any significant anniversary year, to participate in and renew your wedding vows in a Pontifical Mass which will be celebrated by Bishop Michael R. Cote at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich at 2:00pm.

Family and friends are invited to share in this special testimony and witness to love and marriage. Light refreshments will be provided in the Cathedral Hall following the Mass.

For information call Susan Williams at 860- 889-8346 ext. 283 Country Store, and Gourmet Coffee by the cup or pound. Fresh Baked Goods, Kids Booth, Kids activities, and a 50-50 Raffle. Raffle tickets can be purchased at the Friary office in advance or at the fair.

The drawing will be held at 7:00pm. For more information contact the Friary office at 860-347-4441.

Friday-Sunday, November 11-13 Marriage Encounter Weekend For couples desiring to experience a richer and loving life together. Rediscover each other for an entire weekend with a heart-to-heart marriage encounter. To register for the next weekend in Willimantic or for more information please call 860-644-7260 or email: info@wwmect.org.

Friday, November 18 Seton Scholarship Dinner The Diocese of Norwich and the Office of Catholic Schools invites you to attend the Seton Scholarship Dinner honoring the recipients of the 1st Annual Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. Award, on Friday, November 18, 2011, at The Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station, Haddam, from 6:30pm-10:30 pm.

Tickets are $150 per person. All proceeds benefit Catholic Schools within the Diocese. For information, please contact 860-887-4086. To purchase tickets go to www.norwichdiocesedevelopment.org. (See page 13)

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Four County Catholic October 2011

Annual Blue Mass Remembers Its Heroes He talked about the universal struggle of “yes and no” responses from moms and dads….and an occasional “We’ll see” holding reBy Michael Strammiello sponse from mom. This struggle is all about obedience – drawing there is such a fine line bea parallel to obedience to tween celebrating such God. Obedience, said Faan honorable profesther Brunetta, comes sion and feeling down to “Those who the pain of havheard the Word of ing lost partGod and kept it.” ners in the This is the key to line of servsalvation. ice. This is The Offerw h a t tory Gifts were makes the presented by Blue Mass Chief and Mrs. such an inLouis J. Fusaro, tense emoSr., Captain and t i o n a l Mrs. Louis J. experience.

Fusaro, Jr. and This year’s Louis Fusaro, III, Blue Mass Sophia, Marc and walked that fine Margaret Fusaro; and emotional line with Blue Mass Committee passion and grace.

Honorary Chair TFC (ret.)

From the opening moand Mrs. Victor E. ments with the piercLenda Jr. ing sounds of a lone In solemn rememtrumpet playing Sophia Fusaro seated during Blue Mass next to her grandreveille, the tension of father, Chief Louis J. Fusaro. Photo by Phil Twomey. brance, the names of the deceased law engrief and hope filled the Cathedral of St. Patrick, on their home town of Vineland, NJ. forcement offers were read from this final Sunday of September, Father Brunetta also has two the pulpit: Chief Richard Abele, on the 25th day of the month, younger brothers on the force. Lieutenant Thomas Forbes, Trooper First From family 2011.

Class Kenneth Mrs. Sheila Hall, the widow of experience, FaWe thank God R. Hall, Trooper First Class Kenneth Ray ther described Trooper First Hall and members of her family how he grew to for our faith, Class Paul H. were among those special guests u n d e r s t a n d family, and your P r o t z e n k o , escorted to their pews in the front how as a police of the Church, as Monsignor officer, “other call to serve our L i e u t e n a n t Colonel Robert Rosaforte welcomed all present by people’s emercommunity J. Root, Capasking everyone to “join with gencies became Bishop Michael R. Cote tain Brian TutBishop Cote in thanking God for your emergentle, Chief Gary all law enforcement officers’ spe- cies.” He furcial service to our communities”. ther noted, “I know the sacrifices Tyler and Detective Raymond Bishop Cote extended his wel- and the burdens the family bears.” Veillette, Jr. come to the law enforcement officers and their families, and VACATION IN KENNEBUNK BEACH, MAINE! spoke of remembering the officers who lost their lives in the line of Franciscan Guest House & Retreat Facilities duty. He gratefully acknowledged • Start your day with our full breakfast. the presence of Sheila Hall, the Stroll the beach, Kennebunkport wife of the late Trooper Kenneth shops, and enjoy our pool.

Hall, who lost his life last year.

• Visit the beautiful Monastery, with This year’s homilist was Father daily Mass, gift shop, and shrines.

Mario Juan-Diego Brunetta, O.P., • Choose from 65 rooms, with Director of Catholic Information own AC, Bath, and Cable TV. Services of the Supreme Council • Auditorium for Groups. of the Knights of Columbus. Fa• On the Scenic Trolley route. ther Brunetta shared with the When so many uniformed and retired law enforcement officers and their families gather in prayer,

congregation that his father served 43 years in law enforcement, more than ten of those years as the Chief of Police in

At the conclusion of Mass, Bishop Cote presented Mrs. Hall with the Crystal Memorial plaque. This emotional ceremony was followed by the singing of the National Anthem and the Battle Hymn of the Republic, as several color guards stood at attention.

Literally the final note of the Mass

was a resounding base drum beat as the Connecticut Department of Correction Pipes & Drum Corps filled the church with the mournful sound of bagpipes that left tears in the eyes of all of us who were there; yet the spirit of hope unmistakably overwhelmed the moment.

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Four County Catholic October 2011

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reveal what has been there all along.” In one recent instance at St. Mary & St. Joseph Cemetery, several large

each one a unique treasure and sacred extension of the Catholic community. Some go back centuries.

Through all the years and generations, these hallowed parcels have ensured that the departed remain a part of the Catholic community, an extension of the Church.

Over time, a cemetery may become overgrown or sustain damage to monuments, trees and pathways. Bishop Cote has determined that this is a good time for each diocesan cemetery to be carefully inspected and given restorative upkeep. The Bishop has asked the Director of Diocesan Properties, Joseph Muscarella, to lead the initiative to conduct the inspections and see to the repairs and maintenance. The work is already underway. And with some stunning results.

As Joe described it, “The cemeteries with their statues and historic gravesites have so much beauty…we are just clearing away some of the branches and overgrowth to

branches were removed from a maple tree that had all but covered up a tall statue of an angel that can now be seen by passersby, as if she has suddenly appeared.

The work is respectful of the families whose ancestors and loved ones have been laid to rest there. Joe observed that with some of the older sites, there are no family mem-

The Diocese of Norwich has the privilege of owning and operating seven cemeteries –

bers left. He said that “even though there is no one still alive or nearby, we still take care of their resting place.

We’re now taking care of their family…they are part of the diocesan family.” This is very much the caring sentiment behind the Bishop’s initiative to be sure the grounds look better than ever.

Joe noted that it has been a closely coordinated effort with the Norwich Diocesan Cemetery Corporation Office under the supervision of Shirley McGrath.

He also credited Edward Colbridge and each of the grounds crew attendants by name as contributing so much to the effort.

The seven cemeteries will now, more than ever, be a source of pride to the diocese and for all parishioners.

Joseph M. Muscarella, Director of Diocesan Properties

Photos by Trina Fulton

We Can Help

Podemos Ayudar

To report inappropriate contact of any kind by a representative of the Diocese of Norwich or for assistance to victims, please call:

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

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Parishes Priests FCC Online Mass Times Archives Streaming Catholic Radio

Photo from left (adults): Rob Planchon 3rd Asst. Chief Pawcatuck Fire Department; Captain Jerry Desmond Stonington Police Department; Captain Byron Stillman, Don Ferrari and Al Bazydlo of the Pawcatuck Fire Department; Chief Darren Stewart, Stonington Police Department, and Todd Bray, Pawcatuck Fire Department. (children): Kindergarteners Meredith Wanta, Chloe Babcock, Katie Danaher, and Erica Cunningham.

Submitted by Sandy Whewell

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rosary of the sorrowful mysteries for peace, and the planting of a butterfly bush in the church’s grotto of our Blessed Mother which is adjacent to the cemetery.

In the photo, members of the police and fire departments stand with Kindergarteners near the butterfly bush planted in memory of all who were lost on that day.

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Four County Catholic October 2011

10

Four County Catholic October 2011

The Liturgy of the Eucharist These few thoughts about the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the third division of the Mass,

By Sister Elissa Rinere, CP, JCD Office of Worship

can be considered a continuation of last month’s article concerning the Liturgy of the Word.

Every celebration of Mass has a purpose and a plan. Basically, the ritual is divided into four parts; In-

troductory Rites, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist and Concluding Rites. The celebration as a whole takes on its true character only when we understand the progression and meaning of each individual part.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist follows the Liturgy of the Word. Having heard the message from the Lord in Scripture, and having responded to the message by the proclama-

tion of the Creed and the prayers of petition, the community is now ready for the heart of the celebration, the liturgy of the Eucharist.

First, the altar and the gifts are prepared. The bread and wine are brought to the altar and placed there along with the chalice and other vessels needed for Mass. The prayers of the priest and the acclamation of the people, “Blessed be God for-

ich Diocese of Norw hop

Office of the Bis 201 Broadway ticut 06360 Norwich, Connec (860) 887-9294

Most Reverend D.D. Michael R. Cote,

rs in Christ, My dear sisters and brothe ved October as Respect the United States has obser is is a time of prayer, in h urc Ch the rs, yea ) For nearly forty (40 ct Life Sunday. Th nday of the month as Respe and caring for Life Month and the first Su disciples of the Lord, we are committed to loving d and sisters Go reflection, and renewal. As the respect their dignity, as sons and daughters of m others and to showing the ands. nth we pray for dem us, Jes and brothers of In a particular way this mo us gift of life m. the for yer pra h wit Our care for others begins expectant parents. We give thanks for the precio is sacred in their t life bo un rn children and for t we will always give witness to our conviction tha n the lives of tai tha sus ce gra and t the to protec and we ask for pray, too, for the courage We . pted to give up nce ste tem exi are n o ma wh hu se of all stages infirm, and of tho the and y erl eld the le, the weak and vulnerab handiwork of e of its beauty. Life is the n. Through on life. enc ess the see we , life of t In our reflection on the gif God but also redeemed by God’s only begotten So gift of new d by the God. We are not only create embraced by God our loving Father, and given are firmly believes h we , urc on Ch pti has written: “The the gift of redem II, l Pau n Joh pe Po d sse , Ble goodness. Against life. Our late Holy Father ays a splendid gift of God’s h stands for life. alw is , ing fer suf and ak we that human life, even if over the world, the Churc rist Himself.” ness which cast a shadow the pessimism and selfish the splendor of that ‘yes,’ that ‘amen,’ Who is Ch that all might s e In each human life, she see ness to Christ and to continue His mission: “I cam wit to is e) life em ce Th bra m em To Progra full.” (2011 Respect Life XVI, reminded have life, and have it to the ited States in 2008, our Holy Father, Pope Benedict fulfilling that During his visit to the Un a leaven in society. Daily, we must be renewed in l guide our wil to be the faithful that they are ly Father, we pray that the light of the Holy Spirit human being.

Ho ry r eve ou red nature of life of responsibility. With ognize and respect the sac ior the strength choices so that all may rec Mary, our Mother, we ask from our Lord and Sav of Through the intercession among us life, Jesus, Who has come of to love and serve life. rd Wo s Hi e eiv rec to rts May the Lord open our hea ndance! abu in life e hav t gh Sincerely yours in Christ, mi we so that Bishop of Norwich

ever!” set the stage for what is to come.

T h e h i g h

point of the Liturgy of the Eucharist begins with the “conversation” or dialogue between priest and people, in which each encourages the other to praise God. In the new translation of the Roman Missal, which we begin to use on November 27, the words of this dialogue will change in some ways, bringing our responses closer to the meaning they have in the Latin text of the Mass.

This dialogue brings us to the Preface, prayed or sung by the priest, and then culminates in the singing of the Holy, Holy. This acclamation, so familiar to us, will also see some changes in wording.

The opening phrase will be “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of hosts.”

The hosts referred to here are the hosts of angels. As the conclusion of the Preface tells us, we join the angels in their song of praise: “Holy, holy, holy!”

The Eucharistic Prayer, proclaimed by the priest, brings us to the heart of our Christian faith.

The Prayer offers praise to God, and calls on God to change our gifts of bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ. Following the words of consecration, the community addresses an acclamation to Christ, as an expression of thanksgiving for our salvation.

In the new translation of the Missal, the familiar first Eucharistic acclamation, “Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again.” will no longer be used. Rather, we will continue to use those acclamations which are addressed to Christ.

For instance, “Lord, by your cross and resurrection you have set us free. You are the savior of the world.”

The Eucharistic Prayer concludes with the Doxology which expresses the glory of God throughout the entire universe, “...all glory and honor is yours forever and ever.” The reality of God’s glory is then affirmed by the “Amen!” of the people.

Does the roof of your parish church rise off its rafters when all the people join together to praise the glory of God in the great “Amen!”? It should. Does the roof get raised when all the people acclaim Christ to be the savior of the world? It should.

Sometimes, what is so familiar to us loses its shine and brilliance over time. Sometimes we are so distracted we neglect to see what is right in front of us. Sometimes we neglect to hear anything new in words we say so automatically.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist continues with the Our Father, and then concludes with the distribution of Communion.

Some food for thought: Do you see the dialogue before the Preface as a conversation that unites the people and the priest in prayer?

Does your parish acclaim the Mystery of Faith with energy and understanding? At the conclusion of the Eucharistic prayer is the Great Amen acclaimed with a sense of energy and praise?

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Four County Catholic October 2011

The Now and Forever of Giving Some current research is debunking some of the ideas that creating a will is for the senior set

By MaryLou Gannotti

Director of Planned Giving

and philanthropy is merely for those with great wealth. It would appear that most people who intend to create a will do so before the age of 50. Those who do leave a bequest, a gift to charity in their will, tend to be between the ages of 40 and 54. This nugget of information is courtesy of The Stelter Company in their report “Discovering the Secret Giver.” It would also appear that bequests are not a vehicle of philanthropy for just the wealthy. There is no great divide between the middle class and wealthy regarding gift giving.

What those who do leave a bequest in their will have in common is loyalty – loyalty to the organization that they leave a gift to. Within the Diocese of Norwich there are many opportunities to support your church, the Annual Catholic Appeal, and the many ministries of the Diocese.

Bequests play a vital role in the longevity of the Diocese.

A fascinating aspect of working in philanthropy is meeting with those who do give generously.

Many of these individuals are quite humble and modest about their generous gifts and their ability to make them. Most of these donors are discrete in their charity and their lifestyles. Their gifts are tremendously appreciated. What

many major donors do have in common is having made very sound financial choices throughout their adult lives. In other words, living well within their means has enabled them to be charitable.

In the mid 1990’s Thomas J. Stanley, Ph. D. and William D. Danko, Ph.D. wrote the best selling book “The Millionaire Next

Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Wealthy.” The book was updated in 2010 to include some research following our recent recession. It would appear that even today some good oldfashioned values propelled many of these millionaires to their current status. These values include “thrift, low status, discipline, low consumption, risk, and very hard work.” Not all those who have acquired wealth are necessarily interested in the material trappings of success. The authors also found that often those with high consumption lifestyle who are tied down by major expenses “have little or no investments, appreciable assets, income producing assets, common stocks, bonds…”

By no means does this infer those who do enjoy a few of life’s creature comforts are in over their heads. Rather, it confirms that “all that glitters is not gold.” Those who might outwardly project an image of wealth and success can be struggling to maintain this lifestyle. Conversely, those who live modestly do not always do so out of necessity.

When individuals, whether

wealthy or middle class, were asked why they chose not to include a charity in their will, their reply was quite simple. It included variations on the statements “I didn’t think of it myself,” or, “I wasn’t asked.”

While 90 percent of all American households make a gift to a charity, only seven percent of American households make a gift in their will to charity.

Through the “Faith and Finances” column, I would like to

ask that whether creating or updating your will, to please consider making a bequest. This generous act can do a tremendous amount of good. Log on to www.norwichdiocesedevelopment.org and click on the Planned Giving portion to learn more. Thank you.

MaryLou Gannotti is the Director of Planned Giving and Major Gifts for the Development Office of the Diocese of Norwich, please contact her at 860-886-1928 x15.

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Four County Catholic October 2011

Couple Renew Vows For 75th Anniversary Lisbon Husband, Wife Promise Again to Love, Honor, Cherish Each Other Sept. 12, Lisbon, CT - Herve and Lillian Desrosiers were teens when they met in 1931 — she

By Alison Shea Reprint from The Bulletin

was 14, he was 16.

It was the beginning of the Great Depression, and of an 80year love story.

Lillian had just moved to Connecticut and was meeting her neighbors for the first time in Taftville.

“All the boys were sitting up on a fence,” she said, “and Herve picked me out. He saw me, and he said, ‘I’m going to marry that girl. That’s going to be my wife.’”

Herve has heard, and told, this story many times, but it never gets old.

“She was pretty, like a little doll,” he said.

On Sept. 4, Herve, 95, and Lillian, 94, stood in front of the altar

at Sacred Heart Church in Taftville and repeated the vows they made 75 years ago: to love, honor and cherish each other.

Their son, Herve, was among the witnesses. He and his wife, Harriet, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in October.

Most couples don’t make it to their 50th or 75th wedding anniversaries, mostly because most people don’t live long enough, said Renee Ellis, a demographer at the U.S. Census Bureau.

The census has been collecting marital history data since 1986, and a 2009 report shows that just 6.2 percent reached their 50th anniversary. The census doesn’t look at anniversaries beyond that, Ellis said.

“The numbers just get too small for us to be able to report at that point,” she said.

One evening recently, the Desrosierses sat at the kitchen

table in the Mell Road home they built 61 years ago, recounting 80 years of memories.

Herve said the best day in the past 75 years, aside from his wedding day, was when he became a father. Their daughter, Jeanne, 73, was born weeks ahead of the Hurricane of 1938.

Herve’s face twisted quizzically when asked to recall the worst day.

“They’re all good days,” he said.

“We’ve always went to bed with a hug and kiss. We sealed it. That’s it. You have your ups and your downs, but you don’t know which one it is when you’re in it.”

The Desrosierses married in 1936. The two were lucky to have steady work in the Ponemah Mills in town — Lillian in the spinning room making spools of thread, and Herve as a mechanic. But their combined income of $33 per week meant they didn’t have enough money for a wedding and

What’s Your Preference?

Msgr. Henry N. Archambault, pastor, left, hugs Herve and Lillian Desrosiers of Lisbon, after renewing their vows as they celebrate their 75th anniversary Sunday, Sept. 4, 2011 at Sacred Heart Church in Taftville. honeymoon.

“My folks took us on a honeymoon to Maine,” Lillian said.

“We had no money, but we were happy.”

Happiness is the most valuable decoration in their home. In the living room and kitchen, their four generations of descendants — nearly 50 people in all — smile back from glossy 3-by-5s that line the kitchen doorway and cover an entire wall in the living room.

Lillian rubs her swollen knuckles as she looks at the pictures. It’s the arthritis, she says as her husband reaches across the table to take her hand.

Arthritis also took the couple’s youngest son, Tommy. He died at 15 of a combination of arthritis and a collagen disorder.

Macular degeneration is robbing Herve of his sight. His hearing-aid batteries have failed again, so his wife shouts questions to him across the kitchen table.

But that’s marriage.

“You’ve got to care more for the other person than you care for yourself sometimes. I think that’s what my folks have,” the couple’s son, Herve, said. “My father cares for my mother, and my mother cares for my father.”

It’s rare for your first love to also be your last, but that’s just how it worked out, the Desrosierses said.

“She’s the only girl for me,” Herve said, flashing a smile at his wife across the table.

“I never bothered with anybody else either,” Lillian said.

The Desrosierses differ on their secrets to making marriage work for a lifetime.

“You take each day as they come and make the most of it,” Lillian said.

For Herve, it’s sense of humor.

“She’s got a good laugh,” Herve said of his wife. “And she laughs when I laugh.”

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Four County Catholic October 2011

New Development Coordinator for the Diocesan School Office Dr. John F. Shine, Superintendent of Schools announces the appointment of Mrs. Ann G.

By Sheila Cerjanec Technology Coordinator, Diocesan School Office

Crooks as Development Coordinator for the Diocesan School Office.

Mrs. Crooks is no stranger to the Diocese of Norwich. A lifelong resident of Groton, she is a graduate of St. Bernard High School. Both of her children graduated from Sacred Heart School in Groton and later from St. Bernard. She was actively involved in many fundraising events at both schools throughout their school years.

Most recently, while working for Pfizer in New London as a training coordinator, she developed an expertise in local and global training delivery, as well as curriculum development and maintenance. She also has had experience in the past with event planning, working as Banquet

Lead for Seamen’s Inn at Mystic Seaport.

As Development Coordinator for the Diocesan School Office, under the supervision of the Superintendent of Schools and the Diocesan Director of Development, Mrs. Crooks will be working with each school’s principal and development personnel to oversee the establishment and implementation of an active and viable Annual Fund Campaign. She will supervise and help the schools to form their own Development Committees composed of alumni, teachers, parents and others to plan, implement and evaluate all advancement activities. Mrs. Crooks hopes to visit each school

at least every six weeks to monitor progress in these areas, while training and assisting principals to carry out the major gifts aspect of their fundraising programs in accordance with Diocesan expectations.

M r s .

Crooks said, “ As a parent, being involved in my children’s schools provided me with an opportunity to contribute to the institution of Catholic Education, something that is very dear to me. I look forward to reaching out to the diocesan elementary schools and partnering with the principals and their staff to provide them with the tools and necessary resources to further develop sustainable fundraising options.”

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SETON SCHOLARSHIP DINNER Honoring the recipients of the First Annual Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. Award for contributions to Catholic Education in the Diocese of Norwich:

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Kenneth P. Flint Norwich - Charlestown, R.I. - Rev. Kenneth P. Flint, 95, of Charlestown, R.I., died Saturday, Sept. 10, 2011, at home. A native of New Haven, Fr. Flint was ordained in St. Joseph Cathedral on May 14, 1942. His first appointment was to Sacred Heart Church in Bridgeport, and in 1950, he came to St. Joseph Church in New London. In 1960, he was chosen to open the first Catholic parish in Waterford. He built St. Paul Church and remained as pastor there for 20 years. During that time he was elected president of the first Senate of Priests. After his retirement, Fr. Flint assisted at numerous parishes throughout the diocese until macular degeneration prevented him from driving. At Fr. Flint’s request, his remains were returned to St. John the Baptist Church, New Haven, where he celebrated his first Mass on May 15, 1942, 69 years ago.

The Funeral Mass was celebrated September 17, 2011, followed by interment in St. Lawrence Cemetery, New Haven. Fr. Flint’s immediate survivors are his sister, Mrs. Jean Cuomo of Charlestown, R.I., with whom he made his home; and a brother, Paul of Charlestown, S.C. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to RICAN (Rhode Island Citizens Assisting the Needy), PO Box 204, Charlestown RI 02813.

Checks payable to: DSO Seton Scholarship or to pay by credit card: www.norwichdiocesedevelopment.org For more information please call (860) 887-4086

14

Four County Catholic October 2011

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Four County Catholic October 2011

It Takes a Power Outage...

This was a summer we shall not soon forget. On August 23rd, one of the strongest earthquakes ever

By Mary Tunison

recorded shook the East Coast from South Carolina to New England.

It was around 12:50 PM. I was sitting at my desk when suddenly I heard a noise and felt an unusual sensation. I looked up and noticed that everything was shaking. At first, I thought it might be a building issue. Was the boiler about to blow? My instincts quickly transitioned to survival mode as I observed that the walls too were swaying back and forth. “Yikes, I’ve got to get out of here,” I concluded as I lunged toward the door.

It was surreal. As I made my way toward the stairs, I caught glimpses of fellow co-workers with that same look of disbelief in their eyes. We all bounded down the stairs and through the emergency exits to the outdoors. Those from neighboring buildings began streaming out as well. Sirens could be heard in the distance.

People who accessed their cell

phones for information soon ascertained that a 5.8 earthquake had erupted from Virginia causing reverberations as far south as North Carolina and as far north as Boston and Buffalo. Unaccustomed to earthquakes, we stood puzzled on the streets for quite some time.

There were n o

drills, no action plans for such an event.

Then, not even a week later, on Sunday, August 28th, Tropical Storm Irene swept over the state, ravaging homes, downing trees and power lines, flooding rivers and

wreaking havoc throughout the northeast. Many were without power for days.

It was Sunday morning around 10:50 AM. I was sipping a cup of coffee while reading the Sunday papers aware of the gusty winds beating against the bay window when zap -- off went the electricity. “And so it begins,” I apprehensively muttered. We had been forewarned repeatedly by the news media that this might happen.

In preparation, I had loaded the freezer with bags of ice to preserve the food. Water jugs lined the kitchen floor, charcoal and canned goods were in ready supply. I was set.

Hours turned to days, tolerance to desperation. No TV, no Internet, no radio (no D batteries!). Fortunately, the power did not go out at work so at least I was connected to the world for part of my day. At the end of each day, I’d scurry home to

take advantage of as much of the limited hours of natural light as I could to complete projects and chores. Trying to read or work by candlelight was nearly impossible.

By the third morning, I was seriously contemplating an impromptu vacation – someplace with electricity!

But, out of the darkness, a strange and wonderful thing was happening – people were emerging from their homes! Faced with little or nothing to do, people were turning to other people to engage in conversation. No longer glued to their TV sets or computers, they were actually enjoying the presence of family members and neighbors!

I walked around the complex and noticed people engaging in all sorts of interaction – people walking together, having stoop parties, biking, or offering help to those in need. I even joined in one of the stoop parties and met about seven neighbors I didn’t know. I guess it

VOICES SHARED: Lawrence & Memorial Hospital seeks to care for the whole person. Our pastoral caregivers share in this mission by providing support for the spiritual concerns of the entire community. We join in celebrating Pastoral Care Week 2011.

Its theme of Voices Shared emphasizes the communal and cooperative nature of this care-giving and reflects our basic concern for the human spirit.

Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony Holy St Anthony gentlest of Saints. Your love for God and charit for His creators made you wor hy when on ear h posses miraculous power which you were ready to speak for those who are in t ouble or anxiet .

Encouraged by this thought I implore to you to obtain for me (request) The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so you are the saint of miracles Oh gentle and loving St. Anthony whose hear is f ll of human sy pathy whisper my petition into the ears of sweet infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your ar s, and the g atit de of my hear will ever be yours. This 13 day Novena has never been known to fail. Say three Hail Mar 's and three Glories and promise publication.

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takes a power outage to get people connected.

I realized that night that although technology has served to more efficiently connect people to the world in some respects – mostly impersonal ways, there is also a deep chasm being created; separating us from the most precious and integral elements of human existence – faceto-face personal relationships, the awesomeness of another’s presence, the special feelings that come from a wink or a smile and the joys and wisdom that come from human bonding and connectedness.

Perhaps God allowed this brief break from technology to remind us that people are far more important than electronics. As advanced as technology may become, it will never replace the human heart.

Mary Tunison works for Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of Hartford, and is a freelance writer, photographer, artist, and graphic designer. She can be contacted at mjtunison@comcast.net

A healing presence is as important as a healing hand.

WHEN IS PASTORAL CARE NEEDED? · When a patient is fearful about a procedure · When a patient is facing difficult medical or personal decisions · When a patient wants to celebrate in times of joy and thanksgiving – or would just like to talk · When a patient is terminal or dying · When loved ones are faced with difficult decisions or need emotional support · When help is needed calling the participating clergy

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Four County Catholic October 2011

New Catholic Books Will Inspire At the latest Catholic Trade Show, held in August, publishers unveiled new books galore. A few

By Karen Whiting

standouts that can impact lives: Weightless: Making Peace with Your Body by Kate Wicker, published by Servant Books, shows women how to go from the weight

of worldly beauty to the realization of God given beauty within. The author shares her struggle with weight, bulimia, and fear of not looking camera beautiful to acceptance and joy. The book encourages women to view their bodies from a faith perspective and seek real beauty instead of airbrushed false images. The book

also provides meditations and spiritual tools to focus on God’s perspective of beauty and live a more abundant life.

Extreme Makeover by Teresa Tomeo, host of a popular daily radio show, shares the latest research as well as her personal story of overcoming the self-image problems propagated by images of

modern media. As Teresa states, “The way people view the world is the way they live their lives. If we truly want to live the way Christ wants us to live we must shed the media view of the world and delve into the teachings of our faith.�

The book, published

by Ignatius Press, includes many statistics, Teresa’s personal journey, and feminine wisdom to make better choices.

The Father’s Tale, an electronic book by best-selling author Michael O’Brien, a best selling author, presents a new novel. This combines the parables of the prodigal son the good shepherd as a father follows the clues to find his lost son. The main character, Alex Graham, a book seller journeys through frightening perils and unexpected hope as he confronts good and evil.

For children, Jesus Invites Me to the Feast: My First Eucharist Journal by Christine Way Skinner, Liguori Press, is a memory workbook for children to understand the mass and their faith, plus write about their impressions and faith journey. The book helps children connect baptism, Eucharist, the Bible, and daily life.

The Church and New Media: Blogging Converts, Online Activists, And Bishops Who Tweet by Brandon Vogt, published by Our Sunday Visitor, shows how the church is engaging in digital

media. Communication has shifted and drawn people closer, blurring lines of countries and cultures.

Church members and leaders have engaged people through media into conversations about faith and the church. Examples of blogs, tweets and more share how Catholics can change the world one post or tweet at a time.

Streetwalking with Jesus by John Green, published by Our Sunday Visitor, presents lessons learned by Green as he ministered to innercity men in Chicago. He discovered joy in service and foll o w e d God’s word in Micah 6:8 of how to live j u s t l y, w a l k humbly and to show mercy to those in need. Stories show how a ministry helps men struggling to escape addiction, poverty, and sexual sin. All the proceeds of the book support the Emmaus Ministries that serve the homeless in Chicago.

Beyond the books many vendors showed new wares at the trade show. Abbey Press showcased ecofriendly paper, called Snail’s Pace, made with recycled paper and soy-based inks with nature designs.

Including sacramental wrapping papers, even the bows are made with recycled paper.

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Four County Catholic October 2011

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Four County Catholic October 2011

Catholic Relief Services & Outreach to Haiti Working Together For 20 months after the earthquake struck Haiti last year, the doctors and nurses of Outreach to

By Anna DeBiasi

Development Director, Outreach to Haiti

Haiti’s Sister Ann Weller Clinic were struggling to treat patients from under a large tent meant to have lasted only a year. They practiced medicine under a canvas that had developed rips and holes by early summer.

While the clinical team did their best to provide treatment to the Christ Roi neighborhood in Port-au-Prince, it was difficult to provide the sanitation and space to effectively treat large numbers of patients in a tent with poor ventilation and little privacy. Despite its inadequacies, the temporary structure answered a critical health need in the neighborhood after the Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti mission house and ground-floor medical clinic were destroyed in the January 2010 disaster.

But as the seams began to tear and the fabric disintegrate under heavy rains and the heat of the Haitian sun, the medical team wondered how they were going to continue serving the community.

At the same time, Outreach had been working with Catholic Relief Services (CRS) for months to build temporary “Ti Shelters” (small shelters) in the Christ Roi community. While involved in this project, CRS noticed the clinic tent literally falling apart before their eyes. Valuing the working relationship it had developed with Outreach and appreciating the importance of the clinic and its health programs, CRS offered to help construct a new building—one that is temporary but sturdy enough to last several years.

By the end of the summer, the two organizations made the plan a reality.

CRS Awards Grant, Invites Outreach to Help in Conference

The clinic is not the only example of CRS investing in the work of Outreach to lift up Haitians in a holistic way, while keeping the Catholic Church at the center of the mission.

CRS recently awarded a $10,000 matching grant to Outreach in its partnership with the Little Brothers & Little Sisters of the Incarnation in Port-au-Prince to create and run a Vocational Training program. The program, designed for sustainability over years to come, focuses on masonry and certifies graduates after months of classroom studies, practical training and internships.

Little Brothers & Sisters will eventually be the sole manager of the program.

Also, in an international effort, CRS has invited Outreach to participate in the planning of a conference next June at Catholic University in Washington, DC. With “One Table, Many Partners,” CRS and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

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A new building for the Sister Ann Weller Clinic, constructed through a partnership between Outreach to Haiti and Catholic Relief Services, opened its doors in late August. It is the only full-service medical clinic in the area of Port-au-Prince.

Photograph by Geri O’Hare.

(USCCB) Church in Latin America will convene a Catholic Haiti Solidarity Conference. The June 1st -3rd event is open to Haitians and Americans and will encourage solidarity, mutuality and collaboration in rebuilding and development efforts in Haiti. The conference will promote and encourage the capacity of Haitian leadership; the aim of the conference is to further the One Church Response approach through supporting and strengthening Haitian leadership.

Outreach’s longstanding Twinning Program, which unites

parishes in Haiti with others in the Diocese of Norwich and elsewhere in the United States, offers models for collaboration and solidarity.

Medical Clinic Helps Improve Community At Outreach’s campus in Christ Roi, the medical team and patients have now moved from the tent into the new building. The clinic has a patient waiting room (similar to a covered porch), two exam rooms, a lab, and a pharmacy.

“The construction of the clinic

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Four County Catholic October 2011

is a direct result of our working relationship with CRS, and how much they have come to respect us,” says Pharra Hyppolite, who took part in overseeing the project and is the Hospitality Director for Outreach. “Working together has been wonderful for Outreach and the entire Christ Roi community.”

The clinic has a concrete floor, sturdy plywood and treated-wood siding, and a heavy metal roof.

Outreach provided the concrete for the floor and the labor of two masons. CRS provided the design, materials worth about $20,000, and other laborers.

Days before the formal opening, a three-man team from the United States visited Port-auPrince to paint the building. Alex Michel and Michael Lombardo visited from Suffield Academy in Connecticut, and Reginald Paige Jr. from Loomis Chafee, Windsor, CT, also moved files and medical equipment into the new clinic.

The entirely Haitian clinic staff consists of eight full-time employees, four of whom are health agents who do community outreach. Three part-time physicians offer specialty care. One day a week, an OB/GYN treats women and infants. A pediatrician practices at the clinic two days a week, seeing anywhere from 30 to 50 children a day on average. For the remaining two days of the week, a general practitioner evaluates and treats various illnesses for all genders and ages.

In the month of July alone, approximately 1,000 patients received services through the clinic and community outreach programs (including one for nutrition). About half of those individuals were paying customers at about $2 per visit.

The Sister Ann Weller Clinic has been operating in Christ Roi for over 20 years. What started as a part-time primary care facility has grown to a full-service primary care and community health center for people in the neighborhood and beyond.

“We are one of very few facilities to offer full spectrum services, especially laboratory,” says lab technician Nita Boule. “People come from all zones to seek help here because of the good service they receive here.”

Youth Raise Funds for Haiti The youth group of St. Andrew’s Church in Colchester has raised funds for the Haitian Health Foundation for the past 18 years. This is done through a “Youth Group Rockathon” (where children rock in rocking chairs for 24 hours) and a parish collection.

In September, Andrew Laflamme joined Dr. Jeremiah Lowney’s quarterly visit to Haiti.

He represented his group with a check for $22,810, for a total collection of more than $25,000 raised to support the St. Andrew’s nurses; seven staff nurses at the clinic.

The photo shows Andrew Laflamme, head nurse Judith Ravage, and Sister Maryann Berard, OSF, HHF’s Jérémie Administrator.

An evening benefit to enjoy!

5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3 The Inn at Middletown Bring your gold jewelry and other pieces for appraisal by PJ Jewelers of Middletown for possible sale.

You receive a check.

Event to benefit Haitians in need and the United Way Women’s Initiative.

(Please bring photo ID) Appetizers & ‘Pot of Gold’ raffle For more info: info@outreachtohaiti.org • 860.848.2237 ext.206

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Four County Catholic October 2011

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

Academic Excellence. Character. Self-confidence.

Sacred Heart School, Taftville 860-887-1757 www.sacredhearttaftville.org Sacred Heart School, Groton 860-445-0611 www.sacredheartgroton.org St. Edward School, Stafford Springs 860-684-2600 www.stedward-stafford.org St. James School, Danielson 860-774-3281 www.stjamesdanielson.com St. John School, Middletown 860-347-3202 www.stjohnschoolmiddletown.org St. John School, Old Saybrook 860-388-0849 www.stjohnschoolos.com St. Joseph School, Baltic 860-822-6141 www.stjosephbaltic.org St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale 860-923-2090 www.stjosephct.com St. Joseph School, New London 860-442-1720 www.sjsnl.com St. Joseph School, Rockville 860-875-4943 www.saintjosephrockville.com St. Mary School, Middletown 860-347-2978 www.stmarymiddletown.com St. Mary School, New London 860-443-7758 www.stmaryschoolnewlondon.com

Very Reverend Dennis M. Perkins Photo by Phil Twomey

The Sixteenth Annual Diocesan Mass for Those Dedicated to Education On Sunday, September 11, 2011, the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D. D., Bishop of Norwich, celebrated the 16th

By Sheila Cerjanec Technology Coordinator, Diocesan School Office

St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org St. Michael School, Pawcatuck 860-599-1084 www.stmichaelschoolct.com St. Matthew Pre-School, Tolland 860-872-0200 www.stmatthewct.org St. Bernard Pre-School, Rockville 860-875-0475 www.saintbernardchurch.org

Annual Diocesan Mass for Those Dedicated to Education, at the Cathedral of St. Patrick. The congregation composed of teachers, present and retired, administrators, support staff, and others joined in prayer as they rededicated themselves to their mission to educate all children “by word and example, in the ways of wisdom

and integrity.” Bishop Cote commissioned the educators to “share in the search for truth and to lead children to a generous commitment to one another.” Acknowledging the day, September 11th , as a day of remembrance, he spoke of its lasting legacy as one not of fear and horror but as one of hope. He said, “We… celebrate this Mass … on the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks against our country. This day and date recall the horror of unspeakable evil and the inspiration of overwhelming courage and self-sacrifice. As teachers, we have an obligation to form in the minds

of students, respect and love and to teach them to reject hate, revenge, and violence.”

He urged Catholic educators to guide their students in faith, to “defeat the fear that terrorists impart”, by teaching peace and the eternal hope that is found in Jesus, Mass Committee member, Anna Alfiero, carried the Memorial Book bearing the inscriptions of names of deceased educators and support staff who were remembered in the day’s Mass. The congregation was encouraged to add names to the book prior to the Mass and later at the reception.

The theme of sharing in the search for

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

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Four County Catholic October 2011

truth that Bishop Cote alluded to in his comments and the teaching of the legacy of 9/11 as one of hope and a peaceful future was pervasive throughout the Mass. Even the rainbow, chosen by the Mass Committee as its logo, is often seen as a scriptural symbol of God’s covenant with his people to lead His faithful in search of truth, just as our educators lead our students.

The Very Reverend Dennis M. Perkins, the Vicar for Clergy of the Diocese of Norwich and Pastor of St. Michael Church in Pawcatuck was the homilist for the Mass. He too, spoke of the significance of the events of 9/11. He spoke of the sadness that the terror and destruction of that day has forever etched in everyone’s memories. He echoed the Bishop’s reference, how in its most desperate hour , the United States turned to prayer, and to placing trust in the Lord while at the same time fighting back with generosity, courage, self- sacrifice and compassion. As a sixth, seventh and eighth grade Latin teacher for the past twelve

years at St. Michael School, it is not surprising that he would reference the origin of the word “educate”. The Latin verb “educere means,” to draw out or to lead out”. What better way to describe the job of a teacher in our Catholic schools? As Father Perkins said, teachers must lead their students and guide them not simply by , “filling their head with facts”, but by helping them to develop within themselves the qualities that God has already instilled in them, so that when the time comes, they will be able to manifest these qualities whenever called upon to do so.

Upon visiting Ground Zero in 2008, Pope Benedict prayed the following: “…Comfort and console us, strengthen us in hope, and give us the wisdom and courage to work tirelessly for a world where true peace and love reign among nations and in the hearts of all.” This is the work of a Catholic educator.

Following the Mass, a reception was held in the Cathedral auditorium. All were invited to attend.

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Four County Catholic October 2011

Puppy Love, Whale Watching & St. Francis Across the country, young married couples have settled on the perfect preparation for

By Christina Capecchi

Four County Catholic Contributor

parenthood: a puppy.

It is a trial run that delivers many of the same tussles and delights – a tiny, big-eyed creature who is named and measured and potty trained, who interrupts Netflix and upends the budget, protracting Saturday mornings and contracting Saturday nights.

Someone to worry about and brag about, to snuggle and scold.

Someone to put in the Christmas card.

It may seem silly, but the multivitamin dog treats and rhinestone-encrusted collars come with

the immediate miracle of getting outside yourself – committing to that pup and feeling your heart rise and fall with its every whimper.

Puppy training is, indeed, parent training.

Three in four Catholic households report having a pet, according to the American National Election Studies.

This month we salute their patron saint, St. Francis of Assisi, and all the motley pets we’ve loved. We gather under the slanted sun for animal blessings, a reminder of the catholicity of Catholicism, that the stuff of home life has a place in the church – even the critters that

shed.

Jackie, 48, a curly-haired Catholic who has never married, cherishes her Shih Tzu. Without her, the New Jersey native says, “this house would be really

lonely.”

Jackie lost her male Shih Tzu in May, “after 15 and a half years of happiness and love.”

Hallmark introduced pet sympathy cards in 1984, and over the years, sales have steadily increased.

“Your pet was part of the family,”

reads one card, picturing an empty soft chair. “That’s what makes saying goodbye so hard.”

The more hours I log in my office, the more I appreciate even passing animal encounters, like the four raccoons that cautiously descended our oak after a thunderstorm, crawling in pairs and leaning against each other. Or the tree frog that landed on the front door one August evening, mystifying with its bulging yellow eyes.

Sit too long at a computer and you can forget everything outside the inbox.

That’s why my family packed three binoculars and a 16-gigabyte memory card on our recent Alaskan cruise. We yearned to see some hulking mammal living among the woodland and waterfalls. Goats and moose and bears – oh, my!

Bald eagles flew overhead, salmon swam below us. And I couldn’t pass up the opportunity for whale watching. Two and a half hours and a guarantee of a whale spotting or your money back. I handed over my credit card and signed up.

Two and a half hours later, the outlook was bleak: gray sky, gray water, biting wind and pelting rain.

No whale.

“This is when they toss out the battery-operated rubber whale,” someone joked.

And finally, a humpback. On our side of the boat. Not far.

The dorsal fin made a smooth arc, sliding from right to left. I snapped my camera repeatedly, pointing it at the whale and lowering it to my chin so I could observe directly, without any filter.

Here was a 40-ton beast in an endless ocean choosing that very moment to dip above the water.

Witnessing that spontaneous act in that natural environment felt like peering behind the curtain into a secret world. You only get a few seconds, but you memorize the sight.

“All praise to you, Oh Lord, for all these brother and sister creatures,” St. Francis wrote in his Canticle of the Creatures.

We echo his words today, craning our necks to take it all in. The world is big, and we are small.

Christina Capecchi is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, Minn. She can be reached at www.ReadChristina.com.

Connecticut

Go the extra mile

for our penguins Actually, more like 3.2 It doesn’t matter if you run, walk or waddle. Turn out for our 5K Run or 2 mile Walk, and you’re going a long way to show your caring for our ocean planet as a whole, and our adorable penguins in particular. With loads of fun, activities and FREE admission to the Aquarium for every participant.

5K RUN WALK FOR THE PENGUINS

Saturday, October 15 Start time 9AM EXIT 90 OFF I-95 | M Y STIC, CT

Register ahead at mysticaquarium.org

Foster/Adopt

ctfosteradopt.com

We All Have Love to Give...

The Department of Children and Families needs foster fam­ ilies and adoptive families for children of all ages. Attend an informational meeting where we will give descriptions of our foster and adoptive family programs. Homes are es­ pecially needed for children over ten years old.

Tuesday October 11 at 7:00pm Norwich DCF 2 Courthouse Square Norwich, CT

Monday October 24 at 7:00pm Cragin Memorial Library 8 Linwood Avenue Colchester, CT

Wednesday November 2 at 7:00pm Ledyard Center Library 718 Col. Ledyard Highway Ledyard, CT

Wednesday November 9 at 7:00pm Stonington Human Services 166 S. Broad Street Pawcatuck, CT

Monday November 14 at 7:00pm Griswold Town Hall 28 Main Street Jewett City, CT

Tuesday November 22 at 7:00pm East Lyme Community Ctr. 39 Society Road East Lyme, CT

For more information, call 1­888­KID­HERO or visit our website: www.ctfosteradopt.com Los clases se ofrecen en espanol. Para mayor informacion sobre la fecha y el lugar llame a Guadalupe Pillars al: 860­213­0763 (Spanish Only)

23

Four County Catholic October 2011

Everything You Need For a Fun Fall!

New

Saints Triumph in Season Opener The fan bus filled quickly on Friday, September 16 as over 40 students of Saint Bernard School Submitted by Sue Griffin

eagerly anticipated the two and half hour bus ride to Lowell, Massachusetts to watch the football team take on fellow XBSS competitor, the Crusader’s from Lowell Catholic High School. The fans were not to be disappointed as the Saints scored early and often ending the first half leading 20-7. The Saints went on to score again in the second half and were able to hold LC to the lone touchdown ending the game with a 287 win. Senior, Sean Hurley led the Saints on the ground with 75 yards and Junior quarterback Phil Jenkins passed for 154 yards and a touchdown. They had 384 total yards.

The Saints have their new head coach Scott Cook to thank for what they hope to be the first of many victories this fall. After 19 years working as an assistant coach at Montville High School, Cook saw the Saint Bernard position as an opportunity to make a difference in a program that had been struggling for the past two seasons. When asked about the game, Coach Cook stated “The kids now believe – they have belief that they can win. The boys

played with intensity and demonstrated a team spirit that has been created by discipline and a great work ethic.” When asked about the remainder of the season, Cook

said, “Our goal is to take one game at a time and we hope to be playing in the States in December.

We want to hang another Divisional banner on the wall.”

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Four County Catholic October 2011

Saint Bernard School Welcomes New Students to the Community The Saint Bernard School community celebrated Mass on Sunday, August 21st in the Father Submitted by Sue Griffin

Russell L. Boisvert Auditorium to kick off the school year with family and friends followed by an ice cream social attended by more than three hundred students and parents. The school welcomed all new students with a day filled with meeting teachers and making friends. Returning Big Brothers / Big Sisters ushered the freshmen and sixth graders to classrooms and spent the afternoon on fun team building and class bonding activities. The day ended with a prayer service lead by Campus Minister, Jill Patten who invited the students to light a candle signifying bringing their light of Christ into the school community. Orientation Day was followed on Tuesday with the first day of academics with all students attending a full class

schedule. Saint Bernard opened the doors with an 8% increase in the freshmen class along with a full sixth grade class.

The year is off to a wonderful start and there is a lot of positive energy in the building. The Home and School Association volunteers organized two volunteer days to help get the campus in tip top shape. Volunteers spruced up the Courtyard by weeding, mulching and planting and the Track & Field/Football Stadium received a makeover too.

Saint Bernard School welcomed four new staff members to Saint Bernard. Elizabeth Spadaro will serve as our new school nurse, Dr. Linda C. Cunningham joins the Guidance Department, Brian Sheridan ‘04 joins us in the Social Studies department and Susan Griffin ‘77 joins the Admissions Department and will continue to lead both the track and cross country teams.

e r o M n r a Le Saint Bernard School OPEN HOUSE

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23 • 1-4 PM CO-ED GRADES 6-12

For more information call: (860) 848-1271, ext. 131 or visit www.saint-bernard.com

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Four County Catholic October 2011

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Mercy Model UN Club Visit NYC The Model UN Club at Mercy High School in Middletown hosted a trip to the United Nations in New Submitted by Sue Griffin

York City before the start of school.

The trip consisted of students, alumnae, parents, and teachers.

This was the first year that the tour was held when school was not in session. This allowed students and parents to share a relaxing and informative trip. The United Nations was originally established after World War II as a forum for countries to dialogue in an equal and peaceful exchange. The students participate in Model UN conferences during the school year. Students are assigned countries to represent and world issues to research. At the conference, the students are ready to "resolve" the issue as representatives of their assigned country. Such issues as Human Trafficking, Poverty of Women and Children, Nuclear Proliferation and Medical Tourism were discussed

this year.

“It was a great day and the students always come away feeling a powerful sense of the global picture and a yearning to help and to understand the problems facing "their world" today, stated Meg Malafronte, an advisor to the Model UN club.

Tara Palnitkar, Class of 2012, stated that, “The best part of the trip was getting to go to the real United Nations and see how it works. When you're in a club you can forget that there is a real UN out there. It really put things into perspective and showed all of us that the skills we are learning and the research we are doing in this club have relevant real world applications.”

Lauren Rita Slason, member of the Class of 2012, recalled that during her first conference the members of the club were discussing the conflict in Sudan and although they tried, it seemed next to impossible to write a resolution. Lauren found

that the trip to the United Nations this summer showed her that the discussions they have at the UN and the resolutions that are written really do have a large impact on the world. Lauren explained, “Solving international issues is quite possible.

To see the actual room where they hold the general assembly makes the United Nations feel more "real" and serves as a wakeup call to say, yes, all of this is actually happening.”

Mercy’s Model UN will attend the Fairfield University conference in the fall and the Boston College High School conference in the spring.

The students in attendance felt a powerful sense of the global picture and a yearning to help and to understand the problems facing "their world" today. The students always make a point to visit the Mediation Room where two Popes have visited and prayed in support of the Declaration on Human Rights.

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St. Mary Star of the Sea School Joins the WeatherBugÂŽ Schools Network WeatherBug Station to Help New London, CT School Provide Live, Local Weather Conditions to the Surrounding Community and Enhance Student Education WeatherBugÂŽ, the leading provider of consumer and professional weather products and services and operator of the largest weather observing and lightning network, announced that St. Mary Star of the Sea School in New London, CT has joined the WeatherBug Schools Program.

The school will be installing a new WeatherBug weather station, high-definition camera, lightning sensor and web-based educational

software tools. The station is able to provide weather data for meteorological teams at and news stations across the country, to broadcast online and on-air. The weather station will also be used to enhance the science, technology and math school curriculum using the WeatherBug Achieve program. School officials will also be notified with more advanced warning of lightning and other forms of severe weather.

Bringing the WeatherBug Schools Program to the Diocese of Norwich was part of a collaborative effort between Dominion Educational Partnership, WeatherBugŠ and St. Mary Star of the Sea School. The program will enable students at the shoreline school to more effectively understand the science of meteorology.

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“The entire St. Mary Star of the Sea community is very excited to bring the WeatherBug station

to our school, giving our students a science and technology program that they can use to relate to their daily lives, and making science vocabulary something they will be able touch and see.� said Mrs. Merrijo Logan, St. Mary Star of the Sea School, science teacher. “The software and data collecting monitor will give students the opportunity to enhance not only their science classes, but also the math and language arts curriculum at our school. The advanced warning of lightning and severe weather helps us to make critical decisions with regard to the safety of our students during athletic, transportation and other outdoor activities.� “WeatherBug is pleased to welcome the students and faculty of St. Mary Star of the Sea School in New London, CT

as the newest members of WeatherBug Schools Program,� said Frank McCathran, Director of We a t h e r B u g Education.

The WeatherBug Schools Program is committed to helping protect schools and provide an engaging teaching tool for students nationwide. The WeatherBug interactive software program, WeatherBug Achieve, enables teachers to apply realworld conditions to help teach skills and concepts in math, science and geography. Teachers and students in K-12 have access to weather local weather conditions from any of the 8,000 WeatherBug sites across the country.

Using WeatherBug Achieve, teachers can also create customized learning activities based on current and historical weather conditions from the WeatherBug stations and cameras located at the schools.

For more information on the WeatherBug Schools Program, visit www.weatherbugschools.com.

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Four County Catholic October 2011

Living Right During October some of the gospel readings are about thinking like Jesus and following his code of honor, the two greatest commandments. The greatest commandment is to love God totally. That means with your thoughts and your heart as well as your actions.

by Karen H Whiting Did you know?

During October the church asks us to pray for people’s lives, especially the unborn, the sick, and disabled people. Jesus cared about life and helped many people. Decode the words below to find people Jesus showed respect to or helped. Then match each word to the correct Bible verse that tells what Jesus did.

Replace each pair of letters formed from the words right and wrong. For example D meets at letter L in LIFE and H in Right in the chart, so replace LH with D. 1. ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ IT IH EI IT LT 2. ___ ___ ___ FG IT LH

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ LG IG IH IT LH FT LT FI

___ ___ ___ ___ ___ EH FG FR LR FG

3. ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ LG FT IH FH FH IT LT 4. ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ LI IT IH FI LH

I B G N T

G C H O U

H D I P W

T E L R Y

6. ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ LT FH IH IT LT FH EI IH LG

___ ___ ___ LI FG ET

7. ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ FH LR FT LR IT ET

___ ___ ___ FR LR FI

A Mark 7:32-35 B Luke 5:12-14 C Mark 10:13-16 D Matthew 9:2-8 E Mark 7:24-30 F Luke 13:10-14

G Mark 2:1-12 H Matthew 9:27-31 I Mark 9:14-29 J John 6:5-13, Matthew 25:37-38 K Luke 4:33-36

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5. ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ LH IH ER LT LR ER LT LH

___ ___ LT LH

L I F E

R A F M S

Answer key: 1C. Little children 2F. Old woman 3D. Cripple 4H. Blind 5B. Diseased 6I. Epileptic boy 7G. Paralyzed man

October 7 World smile day. Smile at everyone you see today.

October 9-15 Fire prevention week. Pray for people in Texas and other places who lost their homes from big fires.

October 9 National Pro-life cupcake day.

Bake cupcakes and add candles to remember birthdays of babies who were never born. Check it out at http://bit.ly/rlmaM8 and read about how God makes babies in Psalm 139.

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Respect Life Month

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Four County Catholic October 2011

Benedict XVI Reflects On His Apostolic Trip To Germany Vatican City, September 28, 2011 (VIS) - During today’s general audience, celebrated this morning in St. Peter’s Square, Benedict XVI reflected on his recent apostolic trip to Germany, defining it as “a great feast of the faith” during which he had seen “how it is God Who gives our lives their deepest meaning, their true fullness”.

The Pope recalled the various

stages of his journey, beginning with his visit to Berlin where, before the Federal Parliament, he had “expounded on the foundations of law and the rule of law; that is, the measure for all laws inscribed by the Creator into the very heart of His creation”. After addressing the Bundestag, he had gone on to meet members of the German Jewish community with whom, “having recalled our shared roots

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of faith in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, we highlighted the fruits that have thus far emerged from dialogue between the Catholic Church and Judaism in Germany”. In his subsequent meeting with members of the Muslim community, the Pope had reflected on “the importance of religious freedom for the peaceful development of humankind”.

Benedict XVI then went on to speak of his satisfaction at seeing such large numbers of people in attendance at the Mass he had celebrated at the Olympic stadium in Berlin. On that occasion he had dedicated his homily “to the importance union with Christ has for our personal lives as believers and for our being Church, His mystical body”.

The Holy Father had then gone on to visit the region of Thuringia, cradle of the Protestant Reformation.

Hence, said Pope Benedict, “the particular ecumenical emphasis of that second stage of my journey”.

In Thuringia he had met with members of the German Evangelical Church Council in the city of Erfurt, where Martin Luther had joined the Augustinian order and been ordained a priest. In the for-

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mer Augustinian convent of Erfurt “we again saw how important our combined witness of faith in Jesus Christ is in today’s world. ... We need to make joint efforts on the journey towards full unity”, however “only Christ can give us that unity, and we will become increasingly united to Him in the extent to which we return to Him and allow ourselves to be transformed

by Him”.

The Pope also mentioned the Vespers he had celebrated at the Marian shrine of Etzelsbach, located on “a strip of land that has always remained Catholic through the vicissitudes of history, and the inhabitants of which courageously opposed the dictatorships of Nazism and Communism”. During Mass the following day in the Cathedral Square of Erfurt, the Pope had spoken about the patron saints of Thuringia - Elizabeth, Boniface and Kilian - highlighting “the shining example of the faithful who bore witness to the Gospel under totalitarian regimes. I invited the faithful to be saints today, worthy witnesses of Christ, and to contribute to building our society”, he said.

The Pope went on: “I had a moving encounter with Msgr.

Hermann Scheipers, the last living priest to have survived to concentration camp of Dachau. At Erfurt I also had the opportunity to meet some victims of sexual abuse by clergy, to whom I spoke of my regret and my participation in their

29

Four County Catholic October 2011

suffering”.

The last stage of the Pope’s apostolic trip took him to the archdiocese of Freiburg im Breisgau. There he had presided at a prayer vigil with young people, where “I was happy to see that the faith in my German homeland has a young face, that it is alive and has a future”, he said. “I told them that the Pope trusts in the active collaboration of the young. With the grace of Christ they can bring the fire of God’s love into the world”.

Another outstanding moment of his visit was his meeting with seminarians. “I wanted to show those young men the beauty and greatness of their divine call, and to offer them some help to continue their journey joyfully and in profound communion with Christ”, the Pope said. Referring then to his encounter with representatives from the Orthodox Churches, the Pope laid emphasis on “the shared duty to be a leavening for the renewal of our society”.

Mass celebrated at the airport of Freiburg im Breisgau gave Benedict XVI “the opportunity to thank everyone involved in various areas of ecclesial life, especially the many volunteers who collaborate in charitable initiatives. It is thanks to them that the German Church is able to offer such great assistance to the universal Church, particularly in the mission lands. I reminded them that their precious service will be fruitful as long as it derives from an authentic and living faith, in union with the bishops and the Pope, in union with the Church. Finally, before my return, I addressed a thousand Catholics active in the Church and society, to whom I proposed certain points for reflection on Church activity in a secularised society, on the call to be free from material and political burdens in order to be more transparent to God”.

“This apostolic trip to Germany”, Pope Benedict concluded, “provided me with an opportunity to meet the faithful of my own homeland, to confirm them in faith, hope and love, to share with them the joy of being Catholic.

But my message was also addressed to the German people as a whole, inviting them to look to the future with trust. It is certain that ‘where God is, there is a future’”.

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U.S. Bishops Warn Obama of National Conflict Over Failure to Uphold DOMA Washington D.C., September 22, 2011 - Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan, president of the U.S. Catholic News Agency/EWTN News

Catholic Bishops’ Conference, urged President Obama and his administration to end their attack on the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and the religious freedom of those who support it.

Archbishop Dolan warned in his Sept. 20 letter that by contin-

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In an accompanying analysis, the bishops’ conference said it is concerned that if the administration continued its fight to redefine marriage, Catholic individuals and institutions would face lawsuits for supposed “sexual orienta-

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tion discrimination” in their efforts to serve the common good in areas including employment, education and adoption services.

“Society will suffer when religious entities are compelled to remove themselves from the social service network due to their duty to maintain their institutional integrity and not compromise on basic moral principles,” it said.

The archbishop reaffirmed “the immeasurable personal dignity and equal worth of all individuals, including those with samesex attraction” and rejected “all hatred and unjust treatment against any person.”

At the same time, he wrote, the Church’s “profound regard for marriage as the complementary and fruitful union of a man and a woman does not negate our concern for the well-being of all people but reinforces it.”

“While all persons merit our full respect, no other relationships provide for the common good what marriage between husband and wife provides,” Archbishop Dolan said. “The law should reflect this reality.”

“I urge yet again that your Administration end its campaign against DOMA, the institution of marriage it protects, and religious freedom,” he said.

With his letter, the archbishop sent the president a bishops’ conference analysis of recent federal threats to marriage. The analysis expressed alarm at several actions taken by the administration to attack traditional marriage in recent months.

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Four County Catholic October 2011

not defend the marriage act in court. Now, the analysis noted, the department has taken a “more aggressive position� against the law. The conference’s report referenced a brief filed by the Department of Justice in July arguing that the Defense of Marriage Act should be rejected as a form of “sexual orientation discrimination.�

In addition, the analysis expressed concern over reports of efforts to institute a sexual orientation “sensitivity training� program for all federal agencies.

This program, it said, tells employees that support for the marriage act is to be treated as “an actionable form of ‘heterosexism,’ which is explained as being “an ‘ism’ like sexism or racism.� “According to the government’s view, support for a definition of marriage that recognizes that sexual difference as a defining and valuable feature of marriage now constitutes a forbidden intent to harm a vulnerable class of people,� said the analysis.

The bishops’ conference further rejected the claim “that animus is at work� when people promote marriage as “the union of man and woman as husband and wife� and support the complementary differences between the sexes.

The Obama administration was also criticized for disregarding the will of the American people. “In every state where citizens have been allowed to vote on state constitutional versions of DOMA, twenty-nine states in all, voters by sizable majorities have affirmed marriage as the union of a man and a woman,� it stated.

Additionally, 41 states now have “statutory or constitutional DOMAs on the books.�

The bishops also contended that the administration’s approval of same-sex adoptions contradicts President Obama’s own acknowledgment of the importance of both mothers and fathers in his Mother’s Day and Father’s Day proclamations this year.

In those proclamations, President Obama recognized “the extraordinary importance of mothers in our lives,� and observed that a “father’s absence is felt by children, families, and communities in countless ways, leaving a hole that can have lasting effects.�

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Four County Catholic October 2011