Four County Catholic November 2018

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC

Thank you, God for your abundance, love and grace.

Volume 30 • Number 10 • November 2018

Serving The Counties Of Middlesex, New London, Tolland, Windham, CT & Fishers Island, NY

In All Things

Give

Thanks

I Thessalonians 5:18

In This Issue PAGE

7

PAGE

8

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

PAGE

2

16

“My focus is on the person’s strength – their faith. I reassure the person that God is here right now.”

Sister Rita Johnson reflecting on her role as a hospital chaplain.

“A principal goal of the Fifth Encuentro was to empower youth and raise up new leaders” Sister Mary Jude, SCMC speaking about the goals developed at the national gathering in Dallas, TX of the Fifth Encuentro for Hispanic Ministry.

“What you do is important. It’s more than a job. It’s more than a civic duty.

It’s more than a public service; it is a vocation. It is a calling by God, a command by Jesus Christ Himself, to love your neighbor as yourself.”

Homilist Deacon Scott Brown speaking at the 26th annual Firefighters-EMS Mass.

PAGE

27

“It’s a place for making connections, building relationships and helping people in a bigger way than just providing them with a simple meal.”

Ron Krom, retiring director of St. Vincent de Paul Middletown reflecting on his twelve years of service with the diocese.

Thank You

For your continued support of the Four County Catholic’s Annual Fundraising Event. Please see envelope inside.

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC norwichdiocese.org

Serving The Counties Of Middlesex • New London • Tolland • Windham, CT & Fishers Island, NY

­Established in 1989 and published each month except July.

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

Discover more at

NorwichDiocese.org

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

Wayne Gignac, 860.886.1281

wgignac@norwichdiocese.net

Advertising Sales/Production MANAGER

Meredith Morrison, 860.887.3933 c ommeredith@norwichdiocese.net Theological Advisor

Very Reverend Ted F. Tumicki, S.T.L., J.C.L., J.V. 860.887.9294 ADdress Changes

Please be sure to notify us of an address change, a name change of a recipient of the Four County Catholic, or a request to discontinue receiving the newspaper. You may notify us via email at subscriptions@norwichdiocese.net or call 860-887-3933. Thank you for helping us maintain accurate mailing information to better serve you.

Printing/Layout

The Hartford Courant, 285 Broad Street, Hartford, CT 060115 Editorial & Advertising Deadlines

The deadline for advertising and editorial is the second Monday of the previous 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 editorial@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. © Copyright 2018, Diocese of Norwich. All rights reserved.

No content may be reproduced without expressed consent.

Periodical Postage paid at Hartford, CT 06101 and at additional offices.

Postmaster - Send address changes to:

Four County Catholic, 31 Perkins Ave., Norwich, CT 06360-3613

FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC Issue 10 November (PE 9934) is published monthly except July by The Diocese of Norwich, 31 Perkins Avenue, Norwich, CT 06360-3613.

Periodicals postage paid in Hartford, CT 06101 and at additional mailing offices.

THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY Grateful for Our Blessings

“Give Thanks to the Lord, for He is Good; His Love Endures Forever.”

Thanksgiving season is upon us. A time specifically set aside by the Pilgrims, nearly 400 years ago, to thank Almighty God for carrying them through their first year in a new land. I wish you and your families an early blessed and happy Thanksgiving and share with you just a few of the blessings for which I am thankful.

We are blessed to live in a corner of the world that experiences four seasons. As the leaves continue to change colors, we are fully aware that they will soon drop from their branches high above. This growing and changing life cycle of a leaf is very similar to our own growing and changing. I was reminded of this recently at the Seton Scholarship Dinner where I gave an award, posthumously, to honor a good man, a good priest and a good friend – Monsignor Robert L. Brown, former Chancellor of the Diocese, who passed on to eternal life one year ago. I am thankful for the impact he had in the Diocese and for the time we were able to spend together doing the Lord’s work.

The Seton Scholarship initiative has helped create promising momentum supporting Catholic elementary education in the Diocese in the form of tuition assistance. To be there and feel first-hand the spirit of parishioners, education professionals, clergy, friends and believers in Catholic education, was truly

heartening. I am profoundly grateful for the active role so many take in helping one another.

As I looked around the room I realized that Monsignor Brown’s passing ushered in a year of changes and growth. Missing from the crowd were a few ministry personnel who retired this year. They carried out their duties serving the people of the Diocese with a steadfast dedication to the Gospel. And for that I am grateful.

I am also thankful to all our ministry employees. They carry out their duties serving the people of the Diocese with enthusiasm, compassion and great skill. And you my dear readers, your prayerful support in time, talent and treasure of our many ministries continues to be an encouraging witness of Jesus’s call to Love One Another. Saint Teresa of Avila, the 16th century Doctor of the Church, whose feast day we celebrated a few weeks ago, put it this way– Christ has no body but yours, No hands, no feet on earth but yours, Yours are the eyes with which He looks Compassion on this world [sic] And for all of you I am thankful.

A big part of a true Thanksgiving celebration is being thankful not just for the blessings we receive, but for the good works we are privileged to deliver to our fellow travelers.

Thank the Lord frequently as you journey through this holiday season because thankfulness opens your heart to His presence and your mind to His thoughts. And try not to journey alone. This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to be Christ’s eyes of compassion and seek out one person who may, without your invitation, be spending this holiday alone.

“Our real journey,” in the words of Pope Francis, “is to walk with the Lord always.” My sense is that we can be proud in a humble way that the depth of our footprints bears witness to how we are carrying more than our own weight in step with Christ’s loving example.

We are thankful.

Sincerely yours in Christ’s love,

Bishop of Norwich

November 2018

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

–Psalm 118:1

3

THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

Que La Fé Muestre El Camino Agradecido por Nuestras Bendiciones “De gracias al Señor, porque Él es bueno; Su amor perdura por siempre” -Salmo 118: 1

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo:

4

La temporada de Acción de Gracias está próxima.

Un tiempo específicamente reservado, hace casi 400 años, por los peregrinos, para agradecer a Dios Todopoderoso por guiarlos durante su primer año en una tierra nueva. Le deseo a usted y a sus familias un feliz Día de Acción de Gracias y le comparto algunas de las bendiciones por las cuales estoy agradecido.

Tenemos la bendición de vivir en un sitio en el mundo que experimenta cuatro estaciones. A medida que las hojas continúan cambiando de color, estamos plenamente conscientes de que pronto caerán de lo alto de sus ramas. Este ciclo de vida creciente y cambiante de una hoja es muy similar a nuestro propio crecimiento y cambio. Me acordé de esto hace una semana en la Cena de las Becas Seton, donde entregué un premio, póstumo, en honor a un buen hombre, un buen sacerdote y un buen amigo: Monseñor Robert L. Brown, ex Canciller de la Diócesis, quien pasó hace un año a la vida eterna. Estoy agradecido por la impresión que dejó en la Diócesis y por el tiempo que pudimos pasar juntos haciendo la obra del Señor.

La iniciativa de Becas Seton ha ayudado a crear un impulso prometedor para apoyar la educación primaria Católica en la Diócesis en forma de ayudas para la matrícula. Fue verdaderamente alentador estar allí y sentir de primera mano el espíritu de los feligreses, los profesionales de la

educación, el clero, los amigos y los creyentes en la educación Católica. Estoy profundamente agradecido por el papel activo que muchos asumen al ayudarse unos a otros.

Al mirar alrededor de la habitación, me di cuenta de que el fallecimiento de Monseñor Brown marcó el comienzo de un año de cambios y crecimiento.

En la multitud, algunos ausentes, miembros del personal del ministerio que se retiraron este año.

Cumplieron sus deberes sirviendo a la gente de la Diócesis con una firme dedicación al Evangelio. Y por eso estoy agradecido.

También estoy agradecido a todos los empleados de nuestro ministerio. Cumplen sus deberes sirviendo a la gente de la Diócesis con entusiasmo, compasión y gran habilidad. Y usted, mi querido lector, su apoyo en la oración, el talento y el tesoro de nuestros muchos ministerios siguen siendo un testimonio alentador del llamado de Jesús de amarse unos a otros. Santa Teresa de Ávila, la doctora de la Iglesia del siglo XVI, cuya fiesta celebramos hace unas semanas, lo expone de esta manera: Cristo no tiene cuerpo sino el suyo, en la tierra, no tiene manos, ni pies, sino los suyos.

Suyos son los ojos con los que él mira a este mundo con compasión. [sic]

Una gran parte de una verdadera celebración de Acción de Gracias es estar agradecido no solo por las bendiciones que recibimos, sino también por las buenas obras que tenemos el privilegio de entregar a nuestros compañeros de viaje.

Agradezca con frecuencia al Señor mientras viaja a través de estos días festivos porque el agradecimiento abre su corazón a Su presencia y su mente a Sus pensamientos. Y trate de no estar solo. Le aliento en este Día de Acción de Gracias, a ser los ojos compasivos de Cristo y a buscar a una persona quien podría, sin su invitación, estar pasando las festividades sola.

En palabras del Papa Francisco, “Nuestro verdadero viaje”, “es caminar siempre con el Señor”. Mi sensación es que podemos sentirnos orgullosos de una manera humilde que la profundidad de nuestras huellas es un testimonio de cómo llevamos más de nuestro propio peso en sintonía con el amoroso ejemplo de Cristo.

Estamos agradecidos.

Sinceramente, en el amor de Cristo,

Obispo Michael Cote

Y por todos ustedes estoy agradecido.

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.

My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.

Psalm 28:7

We pray for men to answer the call to be instruments of God’s grace as priests of Jesus Christ.

Father Gregory Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations

November - the Feast of All Saints, All Souls, National Week of Prayer for Vocations, and Thanksgiving!

MR. Michael Bovino 3rd Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Mr. Normand Laflamme 2nd Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Mr. Larry Barile 2nd Year Theology Pope St. John XXIII Weston, Massachusetts

Mr. Jacob Ramos 2nd YearTheology Mount St. Mary’s, Emmitsburg, MD

In October Larry Barile, a secondyear theologian at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary, received the Rite of Admission into Candidacy. This month, at Mount St. Mary Seminary, Michael Bovino and Jacob Ramos will also receive the Rite of Admission.

What exactly is this Rite of Admission into Candidacy?

Officially, when a man has established in his own heart and mind that he truly desires to go forward in studies and presents himself to the Church as one desiring to answer God’s call to serve His Church as a priest, he makes his intention known publically by this Rite. Also by this Rite the Church acknowledges its willingness to support a man in his desire recognizing his maturity as well as his readiness

through academic and formative qualifications.

A Bishop or religious superior receives and accepts the public expression of an aspirant regarding their intention to move forward towards Holy Orders. Some seminaries begin the years of study of these men at the beginning of the first year. It is also common at many seminaries that men who are within several months of being called to transitional diaconate ordination and then priesthood would receive the Rite to Admission of Candidacy during the third year of academic and formational study.

Though it seems a simple ritual it is a most important line of demarcation in the spiritual journey of a man responding to God’s will in his life.

Each man is literally responding to the Church and to God’ Here I am Lord, I’ve come to do your will and I commit myself wholeheartedly to doing your will’ As in the Rite of

Monthly

Admission the Church expresses her joy that certain men have stepped forward willingly to give themselves to the service of the Church in this manner, we also as a diocese must always be thankful for each one of men who have and will in the future, present themselves as willing and able to respond to Christ’s call to serve His Bride, The Church.

Please take a moment and say a prayer of thanks for Larry Barile, Michael Bovino and Jacob Ramos for being willing to take this important step of committing themselves publically to the service of the Church one day through reception of Holy Ordination to the priesthood. Please also keep all our seminarians, present aspirants, and future aspirants in your prayers.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving and thank you all for your support and prayers for vocations.

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

Holy Hour for Vocations

November 15th

Mr. Alexander Pandolfe 1st Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Mr. Julian Cuervo 1st Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Mr. Eric Hosmer 1st Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

6-7pm.

Sacred Heart, Groton Father Dariusz Dudzik

December 13th

6-7pm Our Lady of Lourdes, Gales Ferry Father Brian Converse

www.God-Calls.com

Ruben Sanchez UCAELI Program UCONN, Storrs, CT

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Reasons To Be Thankful

Mr. Dharen Brochero Under Graduate, Philosophical Major Studies Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

November 2018

DEACON Michael Castiblanco 4th Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

5

Profile of a Priest Father Frank Gilbert, Parochial Vicar, St. Bridget, Moodus and St. Patrick, East Hampton Ordination Date: June 30, 2018, the Cathedral of St. Patrick

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Where are you from?

Portland, CT

6

Who was your biggest influence for entering the priesthood?

Diocesan priests from my childhood as well as my priest friends throughout my life. They were all very kind and, in my understanding, enjoyed serving the people of God. Another powerful influence for the priesthood is my life as a secular Carmelite, it’s made me the person that I am today. I often identify with Carmelite prophets and saints and enjoy the spirit of being alone with God. What one word would describe your family? Caring. My father was a very loving and cheerful man, he had a heart of gold and often helped people in difficult times.

What was your early spiritual life like? I grew up in a family of nine brothers and one sister. My mother gave birth to three sets of twins. Some of us attended St. Mary School, others of us attended public schools. My mother was strong in her love for God, and strong in her Catholic, religious practices. I remember my mother getting up at 4 in the morning to iron our altar boy cassocks and making sure our shoes were shined. She always wanted her boys to be presentable to the Lord.

This image of my mother ironing early in the morning is imprinted in my mind forever. My mother served the Lord by her caring motherhood to us and by being a shining catholic example to us all.

Thanksgiving Prayer Heavenly Creator, In this season of gratitude and abundance, we give You thanks for our many blessings as we pray for all who struggle with hunger and want. Be with them in the dark of night, when all hope seems lost. Keep their faith strong as they await relief. Let Your goodness flow throughout our hearts and hands as we reach out to one another in the full, true joy of Thanksgiving in Christ.

Amen

What do you enjoy most about being a priest? Celebrating the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. The spiritual depth of the Mass is profound, one can never uncover in totality it’s richness nor its beauty.

The Mass is boundless. I enjoy bringing other sacraments to the faithful. It brings great personal meaning to me. The sacrament of reconciliation is so important for all of us. All of us are wounded in some way or another, we all share in the human condition, we all have limitations and weaknesses. The Lord wishes to bring us his healing mercy and compassion to help us sojourn through this life in grace.

What do you enjoy doing in your leisure time? I have a son, Justin, whom I love spending time with.

I enjoy camping or travelling to shrines, and monasteries.

What are the current positions you hold/ committees you are involved with? I’ve only been an active priest for two months. I’m ramping up, as they say. Presently, I serve as the Parochial Vicar of St. Bridget Kildare, Moodus and St. Patrick, East Hampton.

Standing Together to Build the Future Ministry to the Sick

By Kathy Gaito & Sister Rita Johnson, SSND

2018

Diocese of Norwich

Annual Catholic Appeal

❤

part in continuing to support this healing ministry.

A portion of this article is a partial reprint from Ministry to Sick: A Journey in Faith (December 1994 Four County Catholic). In speaking with Sister Rita Johnson, SSND, Director, Ministry to the Sick for this article she stated: “This is still who I am” (referring to the 1994 article).

Thank you, Sister Rita, and all those affiliated with the Ministry to the Sick for “Standing Together to Build the Future” of the Diocese of Norwich!

Sister Rita Johnson, SSND, Ministry to the Sick

Prayer To Saint Michael the Archangel Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the malice and snares of the devil. May

God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the

world for the ruin of souls.

Amen.

For information on the Annual Catholic Appeal and how you can help support the ministries in the Diocese please visit norwichdiocesedevelopment.org or call 860-886-1928.

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

God is here right now. That He never promised to protect us from suffering, but He did promise to be with us no matter what we were going through.

Jesus is the Divine Physician who came for the sick. Through my presence, Jesus Christ expresses His compassion for the sick. His spirit empowers me to touch with His hands, see with His eyes and to listen with His heart. When I give a cup of water to a patient who says, “I’m thirsty,” I recognize the Lord.

When a patient cries out to God, “Why have you abandoned me?” I recognize the Lord. We have to look at Jesus’ life to get direction for our own.

When I walk into a patient’s room, I know I am standing on sacred ground. Being a chaplain is not what I do for someone, but a way of being with someone. It is service to others in Jesus’ name. I cannot believe in a God who makes people suffer. I can and do believe in a God who wants to “take” their suffering.

My ministry is bolstered by my “survival kit” that contains three bones. These are: A wish bone – to dream the impossible dream, to hope; a backbone – courage, inner strength and a funny bone – a sense of humor.

If I have been of any help to you personally, or to one of your loved ones, it was possible because of funding from the Annual Catholic Appeal. With the help of God, I will continue to be someone “with skin on,” and hopefully you will do your

November 2018

As we journey through life, it would be a rare occurrence if we never had to visit a hospital. Whether the visit would be for a loved one, a friend or even ourselves, a hospital is a place filled with many emotions…and sometimes it’s extremely helpful to have someone available to help guide us through those feelings.

The Ministry to the Sick at William W. Backus Hospital, Norwich; Middlesex Hospital, Middletown; and Lawrence and Memorial Hospital, New London serves this purpose and is available to all, regardless of religion. Sister Rita Johnson is the full-time Chaplain at William W. Backus Hospital and priests serve the other hospitals within the Diocese. Sister Rita provided the following insight into her role as Chaplain: As I sit down to write this reflection, I wonder how I can explain what being a chaplain is all about.

Perhaps a little story will illustrate: After she turned off the lights at bedtime, a little boy asked his mother to stay with him because he was afraid of the dark. His mother explained there was no need to be afraid because God was in the room. The little boy answered he knew God was in the room, but it would make him feel much better if there was also someone there “with skin on”.

In a hospital, doctors, nurses and technicians treat the person for what is wrong with them. My focus is on the person’s strength – their faith. I reassure the person that

7

The Diocese of Norwich Participates in the Fifth Encuentro National Gathering in Dallas

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

By Sister Mary Jude, SCMC

8

The national gathering in Dallas, TX of the Fifth Encuentro for Hispanic Ministry was, the culminating event of an in-depth process of consultation and evangelization which began in the parishes of more than 165 dioceses two years ago. The delegates came from parishes, Catholic Schools, universities, ecclesial movements and various other Catholic organizations. Also in attendance were the Apostolic Nuncio, the Secretary of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, representatives of the Latin American Bishops’ Conference and other dignitaries.

Even our Holy Father, Pope Francis, joined us by satellite to greet the assembly and challenge us, once again, to become a church of missionary disciples, reaching out to the forgotten and abandoned.

The Encuentro process has always been a gift to the Church. Each of the four previous Encuentros has shaped Hispanic Ministry and has greatly impacted the Church. This Fifth Encuentro is no different. With 40% of U.S. Catholics identifying as Hispanic, 54% of whom are millenials, the Fifth Encuentro challenged Hispanics to bring their gifts to the service of the Church and called the Church to respond to the needs of this rapidly growing population. The message was loud and clear: we don’t want to be a parallel Church, but neither do we want to be assimilated into the Church. We want to be integrated into the life of the Church, to participate fully with our gifts and talents. We don’t want to forget who we are because that is precisely the gift we bring to the Church.

With over 250,000 participating nation-wide, beginning at the local level, this process has proven to be the largest evangelizing effort in the United States. It challenged us to be

Delegates to the V Encuentro from the Diocese of Norwich: left to right - back row: Sister Mary Jude, Jessica Rodriguez, Teresa Ayele, Fr. Juan Aguirre, Beatriz Andino, Arcangel Santiago; front row - left to right: Carolina Oporto, Liliam Almaraz-Brennan, Sister Gloria, Estela Hernandez, Sandra Criollo, Rosamaria Lemus. prophetic witnesses of the Gospel, to take our place in building up the Church and society.

We, now, are called to do what immigrants before us have done – build up the church and society.

In the first phase of round-table discussions, the delegates met in their regions and reflected on the dreams, hopes and challenges that were heard in their parishes and dioceses. Then they offered recommendations for implementation.

In the second phase, under the direction of a lead bishop, the discussion was on an interregional level, focusing on 28 key ministerial areas ranging from Care of Creation and Campus Ministry to Liturgy and Spirituality; from Immigration and Justice and Peace to Youth Ministry, Formation and Catechesis.

A principal goal of the Fifth Encuentro was to empower youth and raise up new leaders. At an evening session dedicated to a meeting of young adults with the bishops, about 700 young delegates openly shared their hopes, dreams and challenges. They spoke of their desire to be active members of their parishes and dioceses. They voiced their need for a serious program of formation that would equip them to serve in positions of leadership in the Church. They also shared their fears and frustrations of living in the shadows in the only country they know, but to which they do not belong because of their undocumented status or that of their parents.

The Encuentro in Dallas, coming at a difficult moment in the life of the Church, was a ray of hope. The lead bishops spoke openly of the crisis in the Church, asked forgiveness in the name of those who have failed the Church and promised diligence in correcting what needs to be corrected. The delegates responded with thunderous applause, re-affirming their commitment to and love for the Church and faith in our shepherds.

We were reminded that God has called us from many countries to be Church in the United States. We embrace this call and are ready to take our place in building up the Church. As Archbishop Gómez reflected in his keynote address: “This moment in our Church is the time of our laity. And it is a time for saints.”

In Dallas we were on the mountain top. We saw the vision and heard the call. But the real work is in the valley – back home in our parishes, dioceses and regions.

I will sacrifice to You With the voice of thanksgiving. That which I have vowed I will pay Salvation is from the Lord.”

Jonah 2:9

La Diócesis de Norwich Participó en el evento Nacional del V Encuentro en Dallas, TX

El proceso del Encuentro siempre ha sido un regalo para la Iglesia. Cada uno de los cuatro encuentros anteriores ha dado forma al ministerio hispano y ha impactado enormemente a la Iglesia. Este Quinto Encuentro no ha sido diferente. Con el 40% de los católicos de EE. UU. Identificados como hispanos, el 54% de los cuales son milenios, el V Encuentro desafió a los Hispanos a llevar sus dones al servicio de la Iglesia y a la Iglesia a responder a las necesidades de esta población en crecimiento rápido. El mensaje fue fuerte y claro: no queremos ser una Iglesia paralela, pero tampoco queremos ser asimilados en la Iglesia. Queremos integrarnos en la vida de la Iglesia, participando plenamente con nuestros dones y talentos. No queremos olvidar quiénes somos porque ese es precisamente el regalo que traemos a la iglesia.

Con más de 250,000 participantes a nivel nacional, comenzando a nivel local, este

En la primera fase de las discusiones, los delegados se reunieron en sus regiones y reflexionaron sobre los sueños, esperanzas y desafíos que se escucharon en sus parroquias y diócesis. Luego ofrecieron recomendaciones para su implementación. En la segunda fase, bajo la dirección de un obispo, la discusión fue a nivel interregional, centrándose en 28 áreas ministeriales clave que van desde el Cuidado de la Creación y el Ministerio con los Estudiantes Universitarios hasta la Liturgia y la Espiritualidad; de Inmigración, Justicia y Paz hasta la Pastoral Juvenil, Formación y Catequesis.

sus miedos y frustraciones de vivir en las sombras en el único país que conocen, pero al que no pertenecen debido a su estatus como indocumentado o el de sus padres.

El Encuentro en Dallas, que se llevó a cabo en un momento difícil en la vida de la Iglesia, fue un rayo de esperanza. Los obispos hablaron abiertamente de la crisis en la Iglesia, pidieron perdón en nombre de aquéllos que le han fallado a la Iglesia y prometieron diligencia para corregir lo que necesita ser corregido.

Los delegados respondieron con un aplauso atronador, reafirmando su compromiso y amor por la Iglesia y la fe en nuestros pastores.

Nos recordaron que Dios nos ha llamado de muchos países para ser Iglesia en los Estados Unidos. Aceptamos este llamado y estamos listos para tomar nuestro lugar en la construcción de la Iglesia. Como reflejó el Arzobispo Gómez: “Este momento en nuestra Iglesia es el momento de nuestros laicos. Y es un momento para ser santos”. En Dallas estábamos en la cima de la montaña. Vimos la visión y escuchamos el llamado. Pero el verdadero trabajo está en el valle - en nuestras parroquias, diócesis y regiones.

Uno de los objetivos principales del V Encuentro era empoderar a los jóvenes y levantar nuevos líderes. En una sesión dedicada a un encuentro de los jóvenes adultos con los obispos, unos 700 jóvenes compartieron abiertamente sus esperanzas, sueños y desafíos. Hablaron de su deseo de ser FUNERAL HOME, INC. miembros activos de sus parroquias y diócesis.

Serving All Faiths • Pre-Need Arrangements Expresaron su necesidad Traditional Services or Cremations de un programa serio Directors: Joseph R. Introvigne, de formación que los Joseph R. Introvigne, Jr. & Michael J. Introvigne equipara para servir en posiciones de 51 East Main St. liderazgo en la Iglesia.

Stafford Springs, CT www.introvignefuneralhome.com También compartieron

Introvigne 860-684-2538

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Del 20 al 23 de septiembre del 2018 se realizó en Dallas, TX el evento nacional del V Encuentro para el Ministerio Hispano, éste fue el evento culminante de un proceso profundo de consulta y evangelización que comenzó en las parroquias de más de 165 diócesis hace dos años. Los delegados provenían de parroquias, escuelas católicas, universidades, movimientos eclesiales y otras varias organizaciones católicas. También asistieron: el Nuncio Apostólico, el Secretario de la Comisión Pontificia para América Latina, y representantes de la Conferencia de Obispos de América Latina. Incluso nuestro Santo Padre, el Papa Francisco, hizo una aparición por sátelite para saludar a la asamblea y desafiarnos, una vez más, a convertirnos en una iglesia de discípulos misioneros.

proceso ha sido el mayor esfuerzo de evangelización en los Estados Unidos. Nos desafía a ser testigos proféticos del Evangelio, a tomar nuestro lugar en la construcción de la Iglesia y la sociedad. Nosotros, ahora, estamos llamados a hacer lo que han hecho los inmigrantes antes que nosotros: construir la iglesia y la sociedad.

November 2018

La Diócesis de Norwich participó en el evento nacional del V Encuentro en Dallas, TX

9

Diocesan

Norwich DiocesaN cemeteries At the time of death, the Church confidently proclaims God has created us for eternal life.

“Through the saving death of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we rise at your word to the glory of the Resurrection.”

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

(Preface - Christian Death IV)

10

saiNt mary cemetery

Community Mausoleum Available 600 Jefferson Ave, New London • 860-443-3465

saiNt mary & st. Joseph cemetery Community Mausoleum Available 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich • 860-887-1019

all hallows cemetery

Green Hallow Road, Moosup • 860-887-1019

sacreD heart cemetery

Wauregan Road, Wauregan • 860-887-1019

sacreD heart cemetery

Harland Road, Taftville • 860-887-1019

saiNt patrick cemetery

Depot Road, Uncasville • 860-887-1019

resurrectioN cemetery

Route 145, Westbrook • 860-443-3465

Announcements

Maintaining the Faith for 175 Years!

By Marie Wynn

St. John Church, the oldest church in the Diocese, marked its 175th jubilee with a rededication Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael R. Cote.

The Gothic church, circa 1843 in the city’s North End, is perhaps best known for its remarkable stainedglass windows, with illuminating scenes from the Bible. The Stations of the Cross, were completely refurbished by parishioner and artist Francis O’Meara.

A letter of recognition and gratitude for all that the parishioners have done throughout the years was read by a representative from the Mayor’s office. The Holy Father Pope Francis sent his Apostolic Blessing in honor of the 175th Jubilee to Father Thaikoottathi, Pastor and the parishioners.

St. John Parish has been celebrating their jubilee all year. A committee of

historians created a beautiful display of historical photos, antique sacramentals, and other memorabilia for all to view.

The Catholic Parishes of Ledyard & Groton

Invite you to a six part DVD series

presented by Dr. Tim Gray of the Augustine Institute on LECTIO – PRAYER. Dr. Gray’s presentations & his participant guide provide a clear, comprehensive explanation of the LECTIO method of personal & small group PRAYER as a way to deepen your relationship with God. Presentations will be on Wednesday evenings at 7pm

NOV 128, DEC 5, 12, 19 & JAN 2

Norwich Diocesan Cemetery Corporation 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich CT 06360

860-887-1019

in the rectory meeting room at Our Lady of Lourdes (1650 Rte 12, Gales Ferry - across from CVS)

For more information and to reserve your seat please contact the parish secretary 860-464-7251 / secretary ololgf.org There is a $20 fee (payable in advance or at the initial session) for the Participant Study Guide, used during the presentations and for personal practice of the LECTIO method of PRAYER during the periods between presentations.

Diocesan

Announcements

“I have told you (your name) this, so that My Joy might be in you (your name) and your joy might be complete. This is my Commandment: Love (respect, forgive) one another As I Love You. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you!”

John 15:11-14

Masses of Healing and Hope

Mondays, November 12, 26, December 10 2pm. Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich

Healing Mass and Healing Service

Sunday, November 25 St. Thomas the Apostle Chapel 872 Farmington Avenue, West Hartford Mass 1-2pm, Healing Service 2-4pm.

Prayer Teams, Individual Prayer & Anointing

Portland Prayer Group Mass

Wednesday, November 28 7:30pm. St. Mary Church, Portland

December 5, T.V. Mass

Wednesday, 10am.

Channel 11 WCCT Comcast Channel 20 WTXX Charter

Spiritual Renewal Services

Spiritual Renewal Center 11 Bath Street, Norwich, CT 06360 Phone: 860-887-0702

Sunday, November 18 Candle Light Concert and Compline

At 7:30PM at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich.

The concert will feature the Norwich Diocesan Choir and the Golden Scroll Soloists String Quartet.

To place an ad or story in the January Issue: Advertisements and content due Monday December 3, 2018 Contact Advertising Sales/Production Manager Meredith Morrison, 860.887.3933 commeredith@norwichdiocese.net

PLEASE HELP THIS HOLIDAy SEASON “We love our neighbor as being made in the image of God and as an object of His love.”

- Saint Vincent de Paul

Donations are welcomed and always needed!

St. Vincent de Paul Middletown

860-344-0097 www.svdmiddletown.org

St.Vincent de Paul Place Norwich 860-889-7374 www.svdpp.org

November 2018

Friday-Sunday, November 9-11 Friday 7pm -Sunday lunch My Father’s House Retreat Center, Moodus, “A Packaged Gift of the Pentecost Experience” To register ($150/per person) for a life changing experience 860-873-1906 or www.myfathershouse.org Presented by Fr. Ray Introvigne and Judith Hughes

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Life in the Seminar Weekend Retreat

11

New Director of Development for Diocese FCC News Desk Gitlin, assistant general counsel at Colt’s Manufacturing and corporate counsel at Pfizer. “My law degree and experience in the Development Office will continue to be an asset to me. Of all my jobs, working for Bishop Cote Mary Ellen is not a new addition and with the entire Diocesan team has to the Office of Development. For been my greatest joy.” over 5 years she has assisted people in planned giving and establishing We asked Mary Ellen if we can expect endowments as Development anything new in Development. “One of my first tasks will be to meet with Manager-Major Gifts. each of our pastors to find out how Mary Ellen graduated from St. our office can best assist them and Bernard High School, Uncasville their parishes. I want to be a valued and went on to receive her B.A. resource to each pastor and parish.” with honors, magna cum laude from Brown University and Juris Mary Ellen and John, her husband Doctor, summa cum laude, from of 29 years, are parishioners of St. Boston College Law School. Her Andrew Parish in Colchester. They prior work history includes in part, have 3 grown children, David, Katie working as an attorney at Hebb & and Megan.

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Mrs. Mary Ellen Mahoney was recently appointed as Executive Director of the Office of Development by the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich.

12

JESUS REVEALED Encountering Christ In His Biblical Names November 17 & 28 December 5 We invite you to join us from 7-8:30pm at the Cathedral of St. Patrick Church hall for part 1 of an 18-week journey across scripture to encounter Jesus Christ in the names through which He reveals Himself to us in the bible. This program seeks to deepen both your knowledge and relationship with our Lord through scripture study, Lectio Divina (the prayerful reading of scripture), and Adoration of the blessed sacrament at each session! The program is being coordinated by Father Peter Langevin and will be facilitated by one of our parish catechists, Mona Anne Niedbala. the program is free, and materials will be provided, including access to online videos for each session. Please call the rectory at 860-889-8441 to register! * Part 2 will be held in the spring of 2019*

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6

FCC News Desk

Prayers Answered Merciful Saviour Re-Opens is just beautiful. Browsing through everything takes time and you will feel comfortable doing just that.

The Advent season is soon upon us and Merciful Saviour is stocking up on items for everyone to find Christ in Christmas. “Making Christmas memories with family is a special part of being a Christian and we hope our keepsakes help everyone do just

that. Our mission is to share the joy of our Lord and our faith through our service to the public. We want to create a welcoming environment where people can find resources they are looking for. Ministering to people is key,” said Suzanne. “We hope to connect with you through our faith and grow together. We have been and continue to be abundantly blessed.”

“We loved hearing how beautiful the store is and how blessed the community feels once again to have the store open. Our family is overjoyed with all of the prayers and support. Getting ready was a ton of work, but we had family and friends to help!” said new owner Suzanne Bombria.

People came from all over to Merciful Savior’s Grand Re-Opening. Father Richard Breton,from St. Andrew’s Church in Colchester, surprised the Bombria family that morning by coming into the store and blessing it. Those who were there, gathered around as he prayed over the store and everyone in it. Father Ray

Introvigne and Monsignor Les Janik had come in during our preparations and also gave beautiful, soultouching blessings.

The summer was spent renovating and restocking with new products as well as familiar ones. Some of the new items include Mystic Monk Coffee, Trappist Preserves, beautiful memorial lamps, unique gifts that give back, and contemporary jewelry from Spirit and Truth Christian Jewelry Designs. They also have versions of popular games with a Christian format that teens and kids love.

The store has a warm and inviting atmosphere. The new baptism section

Family-owned and operated Christian Gift Shop dedicated to the Blessed Mother, and sharing the joy of our Lord and our faith

We have Advent and Christmas items that will keep the tradition of Christ in Christmas!

392 South Main Street, Colchester

860-537-0079

Store Hours: Mon-Wed 10-5, Thurs & Fri 10-6, Sat 10-3

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Psalm 106:1

November 2018

Monsignor Les Janik greets and blesses visitors at the grand re-opening.

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Merciful Saviour Gift Shop

13

First Visit to Haiti

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

By Marie Farrell

14

Ainsley MacLachlan is the 16year old granddaughter of Sue and Dennis Petruzzi, long time volunteers of Outreach to Haiti, who lead immersion trips to Haiti.

She joined their trip to Haiti for the first time and writes about meeting with students from the OTH Education Sponsorship Program, as one of many powerful impressions she took away from her time in Haiti.

but spoke that she too is a musician like her sister and hopes to become a psychiatrist. Hearing how these young people are working hard every single day to make the most of their education so that they can one day pursue their dreams, to help improve their country is so inspiring! They are truly going somewhere. They are Haiti’s future. They are the ones who will make a difference.

My first impression of the six young Haitians I met - 8th and 12th grade sisters and university/ vocational students, was how welcoming they were! Meeting with us is not something they were simply asked to do, they were genuinely excited to talk to us. Each person I met was incredibly intelligent and earnest. I first spoke with Winold, an automotive mechanic student.

Winold spoke English extremely well, and when I asked him how he learned English, he explained, from reading, to watching videos, to listening to American music.

He said that it is his dream to teach English. He takes every opportunity he can, to bring him closer to his objective.

These are just some of the students enrolled in Haiti’s Education Sponsorship program that you are helping. Outreach to Haiti would like to thank Cross Catholic and Tom and Julie Woods Foundation for grants that aid education sponsorship for Haitian students, in addition to our many individual sponsors, who make it possible Ainsley MacLachlan with Schlaidine Saintherve a student to send 200 Haitian children to sponsored through Outreach to Haiti school. There are many more children waiting for sponsors – can himself. Wenguerdy too is truly in absolute awe with her ability you help? Please call our office willing to do whatever it takes to to speak English and her overall (860)800-3601 or visit our website enthusiasm. www.outreachtohaiti.org. achieve his goals.

In our group discussion, I became more and more impressed with these amazing people. Wenguerdy, a medical student, told us not only is he in medical school, but he also teaches a nursing class, and is running his own promotional business. He doesn’t make any money, but he does it to better

Neima is the 15-year old daughter of Emil, Outreach’s Education Director. Neima claimed that she did not know much English, so her father said that he would translate for her, but she said that she wanted to give it a try. Neima told us all about her ambitions as a violinist, and her plans to go to medical school to become a pediatrician someday, all in perfect English!

Neima may have been shy at first, but by the end she had everyone

Josue, an agronomist, has designed a biofuel project that he plans on using to improve Haiti’s environment. He’s entered this project in a contest, and advanced to the regionals. Paul Edson, an engineer, was excited to show us one of his projects that he was very proud of. Paul has applied to be one of the engineers working on the construction of Outreach’s new building. 12 year-old Gaelle, Neima’s younger sister, was quiet

Parker

park ermemorials@yahoo.com

Enter His gates with thanksgiving, And His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him; bless His name. Psalm 100:4

Celebrating One Another Diocesan Appointments The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, has made the following clergy and diocesan appointments in the Diocese of Norwich:

Mrs. Mary Ellen Mahoney, Executive Director of the Office of Development for the Diocese of Norwich.

Ms. Ethel Higgins, Director of Saint Vincent de Paul Place, Middletown.

Mr. Wayne Gignac, Director of Communications for the Diocese of Norwich.

To read more about about the Partnership on Disability Mass and the One Heart ministry, please visit norwichdiocese.org

Discover more at

NorwichDiocese.org

Starts Sunday December 2nd - through Monday, December 24th

Christmas in Poland

November 17, 2018 to February 3, 2019 1 State Street, New Haven Open 10-5 daily 203-865-0400 kofcmuseum.org Gift shop Free admission & parking Schools & groups welcome

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS MUSEUM I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving. Psalm 69:30

November 2018

Photo by Marie Wynn Julianna Lariviere hands Bishop Cote a card that she made for him. On the cover was an angel complete with wings and halo, it was titled Love Bishop Cote. The inside of the card featured two figures- Julianna in her wheelchair and Bishop Cote. Bishop Cote met Julianna after the Second Annual Partnership on Disability Mass and accepted the card from her. In turn he gave Julianna a special blessing because she is such a special young lady.

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Sister Elissa Rinere, C.P., J.C.D., Chancellor

15

A Grateful Diocese Celebrates 26t

T

“It’s Not a Job. It’s a Vocation”

Photos and article by Marie Wynn

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

he 26th annual Firefighters-EMS Mass, offered in fond and loving memory of Reverend Monsignor Robert L. Brown, was celebrated on Saturday, October 13th. The procession of firefighters, EMS personnel, fire trucks, and other rescue vehicles led by the Connecticut Pipes and Drums, began at Chelsea Parade and made its journey along Broadway where it stopped in front of the Cathedral of St. Patrick where two ladder trucks hoisted a large American flag framing the entrance to the Cathedral.

The Most Reverend Bishop Michael R. Cote, concelebrants,

166

family, friends, and local community greeted the many men and women who freely choose to risk their lives to save the lives of others. The choir led the assembly in singing “Lift High the Cross” as the participants processed down the aisle.

Bishop Cote welcomed all firefighters and emergency medical personnel to the Cathedral. He called to mind the world’s challenges and sufferings, and “in the midst of it we encounter the Goodness of God and the power of His love in the numerous first responders who fearlessly face danger and risk their lives out of love and compassion for those they have been called to serve.”

A warm welcome and thanks was extended to Deacon Scott Brown who served as homilist.

He reminded everyone what the call to be a first responder is. “It’s a vocation. What you do is important. It’s more than a job. It’s more than a civic duty. It’s more than a public service; it is a vocation.

It is a calling by God, a command by Jesus Christ Himself, to love your neighbor as yourself. You are there in the middle of all the horror and the pains of human suffering

Deacon Brown shared his personal ex to first responders. He spoke on the m firefighters face with their daily sacri “When we first pinned that badge on idea we were getting into something And, any time we serve the Lord, w bumpy ride. As we read in sacred scri you come to serve the Lord prepare sincere of heart and steadfast, do not b adversity. Cling to Him. Do not leave happens to you. Be patient, for in fire Amazing Grace played as the medita of the men and women who made th September 11, 2001. The prayer for Personnel was recited by all, followe Roll of Honor to remember the many by those who had lost their lives in th

xperiences as a chaplain many mental challenge’s ifices to help others. nto our shirts we had no greater than ourselves. when He calls, expect a ipture, ‘My child, when e yourself for trials. Be be impetuous in time of e Him. Accept whatever e gold is tested.” ation hymn in memory he supreme sacrifice on r Firefighters and EMS ed by the reading of the y heroic acts performed he line of duty.

November2018 2018 | |FOUR FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC| |www.norwichdiocese.org www.norwichdiocese.org JANUARY COUNTY CATHOLIC

th Annual Firefighters / EMS Mass

17

Couples Renew Marriage Promises

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Article & photo by Marie Wynn

18

highs and lows, pains In a testament to enduring and joys of marital love, approximately 50 life, Deacon Hann couples renewed the praised them for marriage promises their enduring they made to each love, “You have other on their held the example wedding day during of commitment to the Annual Diocesan your wedding vows Silver and Golden and together to be Wedding Anniversary constant partakers of Mass, October 21st at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick Henry and Betty Belisle the cup that Lord gives married 65 years us.” in Norwich.

Following the homily, Welcoming couples to the Mass, Most Reverend Michael R. Bishop Cote invited the couples to Cote, D.D. said: “In thanksgiving renew their commitment to live their for the blessings and graces of marriage in holiness. The couples married life, we offer this Eucharist then turned to one another and for you and all married couples who prayed: “Blessed are you, Lord, for faithfully live the union of holy in the good and the bad times of our matrimony. In this Mass, we invoke life, you have stood lovingly by our the Holy Spirit to fill your hearts and side. Help us, we pray, to remain faithful in our love for one another, your home with God’s love.”

Deacon Frank Hann, from St. Luke so that we may be true witnesses to Church, Ellington, was the homilist the covenant you have made with for the Mass. He told the couples, humankind.”

“Great marriages require, as our While most of the couple’s present Gospel tells us, to be servants and were celebrating either 25 or 50 years slaves to each other. Just as Jesus did of marriage, the Mass is offered for not come to be served, but to serve, couples celebrating any significant marriage requires spouses to give up anniversary. Those in attendance self and become as one. This is a task ranged from 14 to 66 years of that requires constant renewal and marriage. open communication to each other.” Betty Belisle who with her husband Deacon Hann told the couples that, Henry are parishioners of Saint “your wedding vows are similar Patrick Cathedral shared their secret to the disciples, when Jesus asks to staying married 65 years: “Just them, ‘Can you drink the cup that stay in love!”

I drink?’ And just like the apostles, All were invited to a light luncheon you answered by your original in the Parish Hall following the wedding vows and your continual Mass. Each couple received a commitment to each other – We can.” signed certificate from Bishop Cote Recognizing that each couple commemorating the day. present has a story to share about the

“Beautiful Things For Children”

Come See Our Exquisite Collection of Christening Attire Available in All Sizes!

On the bridge, downtown Mystic Open Seven Days • Personal Attention

860.536.4895

www.thebluehorse.com

Pope Francis @Pontifex Jesus made it so death does not have the last word: those who believe in Him will be transfigured by the Father’s merciful love for an eternal and blessed life.

Donate your unwanted car, truck, suv, boat or camper today!

WE DO ALL THE WORK - fast & free pick up

You receive a tax deduction. You decide where your donation goes.

Support Catholic Charities of Norwich DONATE YOUR CAR TODAY

www.donationangel.org/ccfsn

866-434-1131

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, Psalm 28:7 and with my song I praise him.

75 Years of Faith on the Lebanon Green

Following Mass, a reception was held on the parish grounds. More than 150 years of the history of the Catholic Church in Lebanon was displayed. This included the St. Mary Mission Chapel (1868 -1923) in the Scott Hill section of town. The first location of Saint Francis of Assisi was on the east side of Lebanon Green, Route 87, from 1943 to May 1980. On May 1,

Father Richard Breton celebrating St. Francis of Assisi’s 75 years of faith on the Lebanon Green. Events are planed monthly through August 2019.

1943, a suitable house and one-half acre was purchased from Alfred Card. It was historically well situated among the various landmarks and distinctive reminders of Lebanon’s glorious past. During the summer, the Greek Revival house was renovated and transformed into the Saint Francis of Assisi Chapel. On August 22,

FUNERAL HOMES

Ocean Avenue 12 Ocean12 Avenue New London, New London, CT CT 443-1871 443-1871

48 Grand Street Street 48 Grand Niantic, CT Niantic, CT 739-6112 739-6112

www.neilanfuneralhome.com

FUNERAL HOMES

12 Ocean Avenue everything NewFor London, CT 443-1871

48 Grand Street

1943, the first Mass was celebrated by Father Francis Murphy and on August 29, 1943 the new church was blessed by Bishop Maurice McAuliffe.

Discover more at NorwichDiocese.org

November 2018

Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich concelebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving at Saint Francis of Assisi Church on September 16th with Reverend Marek Masnicki, Pastor, Reverend Richard Breton, Reverend Robert F. Buongirno, Reverend Benjamin Vinjoe, and Very Reverend Brian J. Converse. Very Reverend Laurence Lapointe, former Assistant Pastor, delivered the homily focusing on faith, family and fellowship; and recalled his first impressions of Lebanon as a young deacon in 1969. In attendance with parishioners were area clergy, former trustee families and parish staff.

Knights of Columbus Assembly 138, Coventry served as Honor Guard. Remarks were given by our Pastor, Father Marek Masnicki who thanked all who attended and participated in any way.

Father Brian Converse, who served as pastor from 2001-2009, also reflected on his years in Lebanon

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

By Barbara Wengloski

God created is good, andCT nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, Niantic, 739-6112 1 Timothy 4:4 19 because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. www.neilanfuneralhome.com

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Catholic School Spirit Flourished at 9th Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner

20

Bishop Cote with this year’s Seton Scholarship Dinner Honorees: Left to Right: Bishop Cote, Mrs. Doris Messina, Reverend Mark D. O’Donnell, and Mrs. Dale Mainville and Mr. John Mainville accepting the award on behalf of Reverend Monsignor Robert L. Brown (posthumously)

S

Reverenced Monsignor Robert L. Brown 1943-2017

By Kathy Gaito photos by Marie Wynn chool spirit can mean many things. Most commonly, school spirit is the sense of pride, enthusiasm, and energy one feels about their school. It’s a feeling of identity and community shared by all who support an educational institution. School spirit abounded at the Ninth Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner held on October 28, 2018 at the Mystic Marriott Hotel, Groton, Connecticut. Over 200 people came out to honor Reverend Monsignor Robert L. Brown (posthumously), Mrs. Doris Messina and Reverend Mark D. O’Donnell, this year’s recipients of the Most Reverend

Michael R. Cote, D.D. Award for Contributions to Catholic Education in the Diocese of Norwich.

The evening began with students from St. Michael School, Pawcatuck and St. Joseph School, New London leading the Pledge of Allegiance, reciting the Hail Mary (in Latin) and filling the room with their beautiful voices in song. After dinner, a standing ovation echoed throughout the room for Samuel Matt, this year’s essay winner from St. John School, Old Saybrook, who delivered his essay on “What Does a Catholic Education Mean to Me?” Samuel shared, “My Catholic education would not be complete

without the great example of my faith-filled teachers. They have cultivated in me and my classmates a love of God and especially a love of learning.”

Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Henry Fiore, Jr. in his report on Diocesan schools expressed, “I am happy to report that overall total enrollment including our high schools and Pre-K to grade 8 schools has increased by 10 students, which is .33% of an increase. At first glance, this percentage may seem low, but it is moving in the right direction, and it is the first time in a while our total student population has increased.”

The evening continued with Mr. John Mainville and Mrs. Dale Mainville introducing honoree Monsignor Robert L. Brown, Chancellor, Diocese of Norwich (1989-2017 posthumously). They shared, “Monsignor through The Catholic Foundation in The Diocese of Norwich set up The Elsie F. and J. Marshall Endowment Fund to honor his late parents.” They presented Bishop Cote with a check from Monsignor Brown’s Estate in the amount of $311,392.34 for this fund which provides for the needs of soup kitchens, homeless shelters and programs that serve the poor in the Diocese of Norwich.

Continued on next page

ninth annual

seton

scholarship dinner

Honorees Reverend Monsignor Robert L. Brown (Posthumously)

Mrs. Doris Messina Reverend Mark D. O'Donnell

schools he notices that our “… schools are not just schools, they’re families of faith.” The program concluded with Bishop Cote offering the Benediction.

The Seton Scholarship Dinner offers a chance for people from across the Diocese of Norwich to say ‘Thank You’ to those honored for their service to Catholic Education. Additionally, it raises funds for students who need assistance with tuition.

These funds are distributed by the Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Norwich in the form of tuition assistance grants keeping the spirit of our Catholic schools strong!

Discover more at

NorwichDiocese.org

Gowrie Group Barbara and Ernest Hamanaka

Newman Sponsors

Gallagher Dr. Jeremiah and Virginia Lowney Catholic Mutual Relief Society Connecticut Business Systems

y o u k n a h shared T toin allthewho wonderful

success of the Seton Scholarship Dinner.We truly appreciate all of our sponsors, donors, attendees, student participants and honorees.

Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. Psalm 107:15

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Reverend Roland C. Cloutier introduced Reverend Mark D. O’Donnell stating, “To list all of the committees and commissions of the Diocese that Father Mark has served on would keep us here late into the evening. Let it be said that he has been sought after for his wise advice and his willingness to serve whenever called upon.” The Very Reverend Dennis M. Perkins introduced Mrs. Doris Messina sharing, “Doris puts her heart and soul into the formation of our young people…. A pastor couldn’t ask for a better principal.” The evening continued with Bishop Cote commenting that during his frequent visits to Diocesan

Aquinas Sponsors

November 2018

Henry Fiore, Jr., Superintendent of Schools, Andrew Matt, Martha Matt, Samuel Matt (winner of the Seton essay contest), Bishop Cote, Mother Elaine Moorcroft, SCMC, Principal, St John School, Old Saybrook and Sister Gabriela Maldonado, SCMC

21

Sacred Heart School, Groton

Sacred Heart School, Taftville

50 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton, CT 860-445-0611 www.sacredheartgroton.org/school

Phone: 860-887-1757 www.sacredhearttaftville.org

Gail Kingston, Principal

Mother Christina Van Beck, SCMC, Principal 15 Hunters Ave, Taftville, CT

St. James EdwardSchool, School,Danielson Stafford Springs LindaMaryAnne Marie Joyal, Principal Mrs. Pelletier, Principal 120 WaterSt, St,Stafford Danielson, CT CT 25 Church Springs, Phone: Phone: 860-774-3281 860-684-2600 www.stjamesdanielson.org www.stedward-stafford.org

St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale

David Sizemore, Principal 26 Main St., N. Grosvenordale, CT Phone: 860-923-2090 www.schoolofstjoseph.org

Academic Excellence. Character. Self-Confidence.

My Dear Friends,

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

This month began in a special way with the first ever “Discover Today’s Catholic Schools in New England” week. The more we get the word out about the wonderful things happening in our schools, the more we can inform parents of the benefits of a Catholic education.

22

This is also a special month in which we emphasize the importance of Thanksgiving. Pope Francis once said in a homily, “If we can realize that everything is God’s gift, how happy will our hearts be! Everything is His gift. He is our strength!” He went on to tell the crowd, “Saying ‘thank you’ is such an easy thing and yet so hard.” His homily continued, “How often do we say ‘thank you’ to one another in our families? These are essential words for our life in common...If families can say these three things, they will be fine: ‘sorry’, ‘excuse me’, ‘thank you.’ How often do we say ‘thank you’ in our families? How often do we say ‘thank you’ to those who help us, those close to us, those at our side throughout life? All too often we take everything for granted.” He went on to say that Mary’s words at the Annunciation, (‘My soul magnifies the Lord’), are “a song of praise and thanksgiving to God, not only for what He did for Her, but for what He had done throughout the history of salvation.”

To magnify means to make greater or bigger. What he is referring to is that Our Lady teaches us to open our eyes to God. He is not distant or far away. He is very close to each and every one of us and is alive and well in our lives. What an important thing for us to share with the children and teenagers under our care.

In our Catholic schools, we teach our students to be thankful daily for our blessings, and that prayers of thanksgiving are important. We are quick to pray for our intentions, but we are not as quick to offer God our thanks.

Let us serve as examples of God’s grateful people to our children.

It brings me great pleasure to hear from parents that saying Grace before lunch at school has carried over at home. The parents make it a part of their daily lives as a direct result of the children’s natural inclination to thank God before meals. Our Catholic schools do make a difference in these and many other ways.

With Gratitude Always, Henry Fiore, Jr. Superintendent of Schools

St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic Ms. Abby Demars, Principal 35 Valley St, Willimantic, CT Phone: 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org

St. Michael School, Pawcatuck

St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich

63 Liberty St, Pawcatuck, CT Phone: 860-599-1084 www.stmichaelschoolct.com

211 Broadway, Norwich, CT Phone: 860-889-4174 www.st-patrickschoolnorwich.org

Mrs. Doris Messina, Principal

Sharon Briere , Principal

St. John School, Old Saybrook

Mother Elaine Moorcroft, SCMC, Principal 42 Maynard Road, Old Saybrook, CT Phone: 860-388-0849 www.saintjohnschoolos.org

St. John Paul II School, Middletown Mr. Lawrence Fitzgerald, Principal 87 South Main St, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-347-2978 www.jpii.org

St. Joseph School, Baltic

Sr. Mary Patrick Mulready, SCMC, Principal

10 School Hill Road, Baltic, CT Phone: 860-822-6141 www.stjosephbaltic.org

SBHS Alumnus Donates $100,000 to Alma Mater

St. Joseph School, New London

Ms. Marianne Cote, Principal 25 Squire St, New London, CT Phone: 860-442-1720 www.sjsnl.com

St. Bernard School, Uncasville

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

Full Day Kindergarten School Day from 8:30-2:30 After School Care Available Accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges

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

Mr. Donald Macrino, Headmaster 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke, Uncasville, CT Phone: 860-848-1271 www.saint-bernard.com

TELEVISION MASS December 12th

Father Ray Introvigne

At 10:00am

(L to R) Yamilla Mateo, Quincy Francois, and Emily Nelson Study in the new library/media room made possible by the Hendricks Challenge

By Shari Marderness

Saint Bernard High School alumnus from the class of 1979 recently donated $100,000 to the school’s campaign for building renovations.

The $100,000 gift from Jason Cohenour ’79 and his wife, Dana, is “the largest, single donation we have received to the Hendricks Challenge,” says Dana Williams, Director of Advancement at Saint Bernard School.

The renovations campaign, referred to as The Hendricks Challenge, is currently in its fifth and final year.

“I am thrilled that Maureen (Donohue) Hendricks established The Hendricks Challenge - a fantastic vehicle for giving back to an institution that has meant so much to so many,” Jason Cohenour says. “I look back on my days at St. Bernard with great fondness and gratitude. The school will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Academy of the Holy Family, Baltic Mother Mary David, SCMC, Principal 54 West Main St, Baltic, CT Phone: 860-822-9272 www.ahfbaltic.org

Jason hopes his donation will inspire other alumni to give back as well. Jason spent his 35-year career in technology, and recently retired as President and CEO of Sierra Wireless, Inc. - a global leader in wireless solutions for the burgeoning Internet of Things market.

He lives in Blaine, Wash., with his wife and son, Jack.

Over the past five years, the Cohenours have given a total of $200,000 to The Hendricks Challenge. Their latest contribution represents half of the school’s annual fundraising goal for the challenge. All donations, up to $200,000 per year, are matched by both the John and Maureen Hendricks Charitable Foundation and the Diocese of Norwich.

“When an alumnus recognizes the positive influence that a Saint Bernard education had on his Academy of the Holy Family, Baltic Mother Mary David, SCMC, Principal 54 West Main St, Baltic, CT Phone: 860-822-9272 www.ahfbaltic.org

860-861-4439

Saturday November 24 Organ and violin concert

There will be a concert in honor of St. Cecilia at 3pm at St. Joseph Church, New London. Works will be performed by Vivaldi, Bach, and Handel and Diane Bish. Violin soloist will be June Ingram accompanied by Edward Stoltz. Admission is free.

life, it is a wonderful compliment,” says Headmaster Don Macrino. “Mr. Cohenour attributes part of his success to the foundation he received here.

His most generous gift will help make that same experience possible for this generation of Saint Bernard students.”

The Hendricks Challenge has allowed Saint Bernard School officials to fund improvements to the school

that otherwise would not have been financially feasible.

Large-scale renovations have included a stateof-the-art chemistry lab, library and media center; wireless technology throughout the building; additional building security; and a remodeled cafeteria, school counseling office and main office.

Mercy High School, Middletown

Xavier High School, Middletown

Sr. Mary McCarthy, RSM, President 1740 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-346-6659

www.mercyhigh.com

David C. Eustis, Headmaster Mr. Brendan Donohue, Principal 181 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-346-7735

www.xavierhighschool.org

November 2018

Trust in the mercy of God’s love.

If you are carrying the grief and sorrow of past abortions, call Project Rachel a post-abortion healing ministry.

All calls are confidential.

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Channel 11, WCCT Comcast Channel 20, WTXX Charter

23

2018 Church Bazaar & Craft Fairs Friday- Saturday, November 16- 17 Frosty Village Bazaar

St. Matthew Church, Tolland. Friday 6-9pm & Saturday 9-2:30pm. Homemade pies & baked goods, handcrafted jewelry, attic treasures, raffles, crafts & photos with Santa. Soups, sandwiches, dessert & more.

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Christmas Fair

24

Holiday Fair

St. John the Apostle, Plainfield.

9-2pm children’s games, chowder &clam cakes, photos with Santa from 9:30– 11am.

Heart of Christmas Fair

St. Mary, Clinton. 9-2pm. Includes Santa & Mrs. Claus, many vendors, baskets, raffle, food, bake sale & children’s room.

Sleigh Bells Ring Craft Fair

St. Maurice, Bolton 9-3pm. - Raggedy Ann/ Andy dolls, jelly baskets, hand knitted items, take-a-chance booth, evergreen baskets, apple pies, photos with Santa, over 40 crafters.

Christmas Cookie Sale

Cookie Sale/Basket Raffle

Christmas Craft Fair

St. Peter Church, Higganum. 9-3pm. Jewelry, baked goods, antiques/collectibles, crafts, quilts, knitted items, wreaths &decorations.

Lunch available. The big raffle: $1000 Visa bank card. Second &third prize: $500 Visa bank card each.

Saturday, December 15

Saturday, December 1

Craft Fair

59th Annual Christmas Fair

St. Mary - St. Joseph School, Willimantic.

9-3pm. For information or to obtain a craft/ vendor application e-mail smsjschoolcraftfair@ yahoo.com or call 860-423-8479.

St. John School Gymnasium, Old Saybrook 9-2pm. 38 + crafters, many raffles, baked goods, breakfast, & lunch.

St. Andrew Parish Hall, Colchester. Friday, 4-8pm, Saturday, 9-2pm. Bake shop, gift baskets, kid’s corner, tea cup raffle, crafters.

Turkey dinner Friday: 4pm seniors, 5pm public.

Dinner is $14 adults, $12 seniors, $5 children 3-10, 3 & under free.

Saturday, November 17

Holiday Craft & Vendor Fair

St. Mark Church, Westbrook 9-12 or until sold out. Decorated, wrapped plates of 2 1/2 doz. assorted home-baked cookies will be sold ($14.00). Proceeds go toward beautification of the church grounds. For more information call Julia at 860-388-4186

Saturday, November 24

St. Luke Church, Ellington.

Friday, 5-8pm, Saturday, 9-2pm. Featuring crafts, country store, American girl doll clothes, attic treasures, gift baskets, children’s activities, bake goods, raffles & more

Saturday, December 8

Angels & Elves Christmas Fair

St. Philip Church, Ashford 9-2pm. Forty crafters, bake sale, soups, sandwiches, pierogis.

Christmas Fair

St. Joseph’s Church, Chester. 8-2pm.

Handmade wreaths, swags and cemetery boxes.

Craft vendors, White Elephant Table featuring new/barely used small appliances /home accents/decorations and holiday apparel. basket raffle, soups and sandwiches, baked goods available. Santa Claus will visit from 10-12pm.

Snowflake Fair

Sacred Heart Norwichtown. 9-2pm - Theme basket raffle, 50/50, handmade gifts, baked goods, white elephant booth, silent auction, lunch & more.

Our Lady of La Salette Church, Brooklyn 9-2pm. Over 40 varieties of cookies available to mix and match into our holiday boxes or bags. Cookies are sold by the pound. We also have 30+ beautiful baskets to raffle off, many containing gift certificates and handmade crafts.

Prices starting at $2,499 ~ with Airfare Included from anywhere in the USA

Several trips to different destinations: the Holy Land; Italy; France, Portugal, & Spain; Poland; Medjugorje, Lourdes, & Fatima; Ireland & Scotland; England; Austria, Germany, & Switzerland; Greece & Turkey; Budapest; Prague; Our Lady of Guadalupe; Peru; Domestic Destinations; Columbia; Brazil; Argentina; etc…

We also specialize in custom trips for Bishops, Priests, and Deacons.

Call us 24/7 508-340-9370 Hablamos Español 855-842-8001 www.proximotravel.com anthony@proximotravel.com

V  K B, M

• • • • • •

Supported financially and spiritually by 10 parishes in the Middletown Deanery.

Currently the only regional Pre-K to 8th grade school in the Norwich Diocese.

Franciscan Guest House A little taste of Heaven on Earth

26 Beach Avenue, Kennebunk, Maine 207-967-4865 or toll free1-844-253-2972 email info@franciscanguesthouse.com www.franciscanguesthouse.com

St. John Paul II Regional Catholic School 87 South Main Street / Middletown, CT 06457 Telephone: 860-347-2978 / www.jpii.org

FALL IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER!

ate

eD Save th

Time to trade in your

Rake…

…for a relaxing

Placement Test Saturday, December 1, 2018 from 8:00 am–12:00 pm

Coffee Break!

Saint Bernard School practices a personalized approach to education. Recognizing students have various academic strengths, skills and abilities our placement test allows us to put students in the correct classes to challenge and strengthen them.

We invite your child to take the next step in the admissions process by registering for our upcoming placement test. Saint Bernard School is a place for your child to learn, grow and discover!

You’ve spent years taking care of your house – raking ,shoveling, sweeping, hammering and repairing. Let someone else take care of the hard work. It’s time to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning, a good book in the afternoon, and a nice game of cards with friends in the evening at Creamery Brook.

To learn about maintenance-free living at Creamery Brook call us today at 860-779-8700 for a tour or information about our assisted and independent options, our beautiful cottages and apartments, and our long list of amenities.

Saint Bernard School instills the values, traditions and skills that will guide your child through tomorrow!

Creamery Brook is part of the Continuum of Care at

36 Vina Lane, Brooklyn, CT 06234 • 860-779-8700 • www.piercecare.org

Saint Bernard School

Ask us about our Tailored Tuition Program to help meet your family’s unique financial situation.

To register, call 860-848-1271 or visit saintbernardschool.org Saint Bernard School • Grades 6–12 • 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke • Uncasville, CT 06382

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

Ephesians 5:20

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Inspiring Achievement. Celebrating Community.

Embracing Service. Living Faith.

November 2018

An Education You Can Believe In.

Enjoy our full breakfast, stroll the beach and shops Visit the Monastery for daily Mass, devotions, and gift shop Choose from 65 rooms, with own AC, bath, and cable TV On the scenic trolley route Affordable rates and clergy discounts Retreat facilities

25

Orange You Happy It’s Fall?

Senior Housing in Cromwell for those age 55 and over.

One and Two Bedroom Units

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

By Meredith Morrison. Wayne Gignac Photo

26

Playing in piles of autumn leaves is a fun fall activity many of us grew up doing and remember fondly, I know I did. What better way to reminisce then to join Mrs. Adams Pre-K class from St. Patrick Cathedral School. Never lose the kid in your heart!

Call for an appointment today!

860-632-1688 14 Club Road Windham, CT 06280 860.456.1107 www.sjlivingcenter.org

Dedicating our love, compassion and service to our community.

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

Sponsored by the Sponsored by the Diocese ofofNorwich Dioces Norwich

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. “Colossians 3:17

Thankful

343,267

Total meals served by the SVDM Soup Kitchen and Amazing Grace Food Pantry last year building relationships and helping people in a bigger way than just providing them with a simple meal.”, said Ron. Food Pantry The Amazing Grace Food Pantry, “Is Middletown

‘s primary food pantry serving about 1000 households per month. It’s two blocks from here in a separate 6000 square-foot facility.” They distribute approximately 400,000 pounds of food a year.

40,000 POUNDS VS. 15,000 POUNDS amount of food collected in November versus the amount of food collected in July

Supportive Housing Program “We don’t own any housing; we have contracts to help find housing, furniture, and help clients to medical appointments, detox and treatment programs.

Over the years we have really homed in on helping that most vulnerable, that most at risk, and

that most challenging group of people who are homeless.” Ron continued, “Our first 16 people were the people who had been on the streets the longest –– eight, ten, twelve years. Those were the people who were failing in the shelters, failing in transitional living programs. These were the first people we put into housing and most of them are still in housing today.”

Community Assistance Program The goal of this program is to help people avoid spiraling down into deeper poverty, loss of utilities, or even losing their apartment. Team members qualify clients for emergency funds in the form of a small loan or stipend. “We help people who are in financial crisis with rent arrearage, utility bills, tanks of oil, emergency basic needs.”

When asked what was next for Ron he said, “The next couple of years will be transitional” He and his wife, Rosa, who is originally from Sandor in northern Peru, will be moving to Peru, to be closer to her family. “Once settled, I hope to be able to use my public health degree in some sort of way to assist the people of Peru perhaps in volunteering, grant writing or other initiatives.”

Retiring Director Ron Krom

Meet St. Vincent dePaul of Middletown New Director Ethel Higgins recently appointed by Most Reverend Michael R. Cote to take over the leadership of the St. Vincent dePaul Middletown ministry. Born and raised in Connecticut, Ethel Higgins, received her MSW from Fordham University. With a career spanning more than 30 years Ethel has worked for Catholic Charities in Hartford, Bridgeport, to Georgia and Boston. She worked as a Child Health Director for the State of Georgia Department of Health in Greenville, North Carolina, before moving to Catholic Charities in Raleigh, North Carolina. Her work with the national Saint Vincent dePaul Society led her to find the opening on the norwichdiocese.org website.

This is kind of a homecoming for Ethel. She chose this place because it is work that is exciting and will utilize all her talents. She will oversee 23 employees and hundreds of volunteers. When asked what challenges she thinks she will be facing, Ethel said with a smile and a slight laugh, “I don’t know right now!

We’ll have to see. Fortunately, I’ll have the help of the great staff that Ron has put together over the years.”

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

After nearly 12 years leading Saint Vincent de Paul Middletown as Executive Director, Ron Krom is retiring.

Ron, who has had a huge impact on the lives of many people in the Middletown community, was anxious to reflect the four-pronged mission of this ministry.

Soup Kitchen The community dining room, a.k.a. soup kitchen, serves meals all but three days a year. However, the meal is a kind of entrée to a larger buffet of services. “It’s also the place where we do our community organizing, connect people to services, get people into housing and shelter, get them into detox programs and mental health treatment. It’s a place for making connections,

November 2018

By Wayne Gignac

for 12 Years of Service

27

Catholic Charities would like to thank everyone who attended our 95th Anniversary Gala and supported the good work that we do.

November 2016

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org November 2018

95

To those that purchased a ticket, donated or purchased a silent auction item, purchased a Flame of Remembrance, or simply made a donation to Catholic Charities; thank you!

7KH HYHQLQJ VLJQLILHG D ´1HZ %HJLQQLQJµ IRU &DWKROLF Charities and could not have been possible without your support.

Delivering Hope

Help Us Support Children In Need in Eastern CT.

THANK YOU TO OUR 95th ANNIVERSARY SPONSOR Stephen and Patricia Coan

THANK YOU TO OUR GALA SPONSORS Michael and Angela Arnold CatholicMr. Charities is currently and Mrs. Edward Tessman collecting new and unwrapped or Capano, gift cards Mr. and Mrs.toys Kenneth Sr. for children Jacqueline agesMs. 1-15 untilKeller December 7th Ms. Christine Jackel Mr.can Everest Brustolon off at our Norwich All donations be dropped Chelsea Groton Bank location, 331 Main Street, Norwich Dime Bank

860-889-8346 ext 266

´,W was an amazing night and celebration, allowing Catholic Charities to honor those in our community who support our organization through their 20 hard word and unselfish dedication. We are truly blessed.µ said Edward J. Tessman, Executive Director “We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, the One who is and who was, because you have taken your great power and have begun to reign.

Revelation 11:17 331 Main Street, Norwich, Connecticut 06360 / 860.889.8346 / www.ccfsn.org 28

Independently Owned and Operated Since 1881

Giving Thanks for Justice

Steve Bennardo

25 Main Street, Central Village, CT

860-774-3284

860-564-2147

Very Reverend Ted F. Tumicki, S.T.L., J.C.L., Judicial Vicar for the Diocese, delivers the homily at the 28th Annual Red Mass, Sunday, October 7th at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick.

The Red Mass celebrated annually for all members of the legal profession, regardless of religious affiliation, marks the opening of the judicial year. Through prayerful petition and thanksgiving, those participating in the Red Mass request guidance from the Holy Spirit for all who seek justice. It is an opportunity for us to reflect on what Catholics believe is the God-given power and responsibility of all in the legal profession.

I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.

Psalm 13:5

November 2018

433 Main Street, Danielson, CT

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Owner/Funeral Director

29

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

A Magnet School for Values

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

• • • • • • •

30

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

Trust your child to a Catholic School where faith, knowledge and life meet.

Come visit us!

St. Joseph School New London, CT “A Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love” Celebrating 81 Years of Excellence In Catholic Education Grades K-8

Registration is ongoing, please call for information

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

WAITTE’S INSURANCE AGENCY SERVING THE AREA FOR OVER 100 YEARS

Visit us at:

www.waittesinsurance.com Edward J. Waitte Pat Zils Michael J. Waitte Debbie Froio

860 886-1961

FAX: 860 886-1965 116 BROADWAY, NORWICH

NEXT TO NORWICH CITY HALL

Personalized Service on All Types of Insurance

• Auto • Home • Business • Life

• Group Medical • Motorcycles • Boats • Bonds ◆ Renowned college preparatory boarding school for young men who have not yet realized their potential. ◆ Located in scenic southeastern Connecticut

The Advent Wreath Preparing for the Light

Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary

O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity.

There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.

Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands.

~ MWP ~

h

Papal Prayer Intention: That the language of love and dialogue may always prevail over the language of conflict.

h

Do you have • Strong writing and research skills • The skill to connect with readership in clear, concise terms • Experience managing Facebook and other social media profiles • An insatiable appetite for evangelizing and spreading the good news • The ability to work in a team environment with limited resources If so- then the Communications Ministry wants to hear from you to fill the position of Part-time Senior Writer/Social Media Manager For a complete job description and list of qualifications navigate over to the Employment section at NorwichDiocese.org

Discover more at

NorwichDiocese.org

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

over sin and death through His own passion, death, and resurrection.

The four candles represent the four weeks of Advent. Three candles are purple and one is rose. The purple candles in particular symbolize the prayer, penance, and preparatory sacrifices and goods works undertaken at this time. The rose candle is lit on the third Sunday, Gaudete Sunday, when the priest also wears rose vestments at Mass; Gaudete Sunday is the Sunday of rejoicing, because the faithful have arrived at the midpoint of Advent, when their preparation is now half over and they are close to Christmas.

The progressive lighting of the candles symbolizes the expectation and hope surrounding our Lord’s first coming into the world and the anticipation of His second coming to judge the living and the dead. The light again signifies Christ, the Light of the world.

Since Advent is a time to stir-up our faith in the Lord, the wreath and prayer provide us a way to augment this special preparation for Christmas. Moreover, this good tradition helps us to remain vigilant in our homes and churches and not lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas.

November 2018

The Advent wreath is part of our long-standing Catholic tradition of spiritual preparation for Christmas. After all, Christ is “the Light that came into the world” to dispel the darkness of sin and to radiate the truth and love of God (John 3:19-21).

The symbolism of the Advent wreath is beautiful. The wreath is made of various evergreens, signifying continuous life.

Even these evergreens have a traditional meaning which can be adapted to our faith: The laurel signifies victory over persecution and suffering; pine, holly, and yew, immortality; and cedar, strength and healing.

Holly also has a special Christian symbolism: The prickly leaves remind us of the crown of thorns.

The circle of the wreath, which has no beginning or end, symbolizes the eternity of God, the immortality of the soul, and the everlasting life found in Christ. Any pine cones, nuts, or seedpods used to decorate the wreath also symbolize life and resurrection. Altogether, the wreath of evergreens depicts the immortality of our soul and the new, everlasting life promised to us through Christ, the eternal Word of the Father, who entered our world becoming true man and who was victorious

Part-time Senior Writer/ Social Media Manager

31

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC

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

norwichdiocese.org

November 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Happy Thanksgiving

32

Route 1, Mystic • 860-536-2626

www.Brustolon.com Serving Southeastern Connecticut’s Community for over 69 Years

E Ex