Volume 24 Number 10
November 2012
Bishop Cote Returns from Holy Land St. Patrick Cathedral Students Provide Cheering Welcome Home
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Four County Catholic November 2012
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On the Cover ber 10 24 Num Volume
turns Cote Re Bishop Holy Land from
r 2012 Novembe
Home Welcome eering vide Ch dents Pro ral Stu k Cathed St Patric
Bishop Cote opens the Year of Faith by leading a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Students at St. Patrick Cathedral School welcome home the Bishop. Photo by Donna Antonacci
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Four County Catholic November 2012
The Most Reverend
Michael R. Cote, D.D.
Bishop of Norwich
Pilgrimage to the Holy Land: An Unforgettable Experience My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ: Now that the presidential election has been decided, we must regroup and embrace the hope and promise that America will recommit itself to its core values of life and liberty for all. For the Church to perform its mission, we must be sure religious liberty is preserved for all faiths. It is only with this assurance that we will be enabled to carry out the work of the Lord to lift up our brothers and sisters in need, to defend life, to strengthen family values, to honor truth and to spread the good news of the Gospel. The timing of the Year of Faith, designated by the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, is exceptional. During this time, we are being called to rediscover and renew our faith and draw closer to the Lord and His teachings. The closer we are to the roots of our faith, the more prepared we will be to help fulfill the mission of the Church over the increasingly challenging times in which we live. I feel so fortunate and blessed to have had an opportunity last month to make my first pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Three times pre-
viously over the years I had scheduled a visit to the Holy Land and each time circumstances prevented me from making the trip. This time, my fellow pilgrims and I made the journey, very much a rediscovery of faith. Seeing with my own eyes where Jesus lived and ministered on earth was an experience beyond what I had imagined. Early on, I had the opportunity to be seated in a small wooden boat on the Sea of Galilee looking out over the same hills, shore and still water that the Lord had seen two thousand years before. It was pristine. Unaltered in any way by human hands or machinery. There was even a sweet fragrance in the air that I understand was from the eucalyptus trees on the hillsides. It was a lovely place. I could feel Jesus’ presence. The presence of the disciples. It was holy and serene. Breathtaking. Each stop brought the scriptures to life. Right at our feet. It was my privilege to celebrate Mass each day and to lead the reading of scripture each morning – a reading or liturgy appropriate for the setting. When, one morning, we visited Mt. Tabor, roughly 10 miles West of the Sea of Galilee, our
daily reading recalled the Transfiguration of Jesus, as it included 2 Peter 1:18, “We ourselves heard this voice come from heaven while we were with him on the holy mountain…” The shrine at that site is the Church of Transfiguration and is overseen by the Franciscan Friars who impeccably manage most of the Christian shrines across the Holy Land. Beyond the depth of history in landscape and architecture, two observations occurred to me. The first was that firearms were seldom seen in our travels. The paths we traveled felt safe and reverent. The only sighting of weapons was at the Nazareth/Jerusalem border and the Jericho border crossing. Another observation was that everyone we encountered seemed to get along and did not appear to be hostile to each other regardless of background. For example, our driver was Palestinian and our tour guide Jewish. They got along very well. Very encouraging to witness. Just north of Galilee we visited the Mount of the Beatitudes. A peaceful place where both Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict have visited. There, we read the Beatitudes as our reading in this
extraordinary hillside setting. We all learned, by the way, that each step of the way the terrain everywhere we traveled was hilly and uneven. It was a physical test to be sure. Every stop was its own wonderful experience. There was Cana, the site of the miracle of wine into water at the wedding feast. There, we encouraged renewal of wedding vows within our pilgrimage group. Later we stood on the shore of the Jordan River where John the Baptist had baptized our Lord. There, we renewed baptismal promises in the shallow edge of the ancient Jordan. Jerusalem was an extraordinary sight to behold. The old walled city with its narrow streets, no cars, bustling with vendors, various denominational quarters and churches. This was the very place of the culminating event of salvation history – the Paschal Mystery of Christ. The streets and stones and particles of sand bear silent witness to that mystery. Jericho and Qumran were fascinating with the network of caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were first discovered in 1947. So many biblical sights came to life. It came
close to overwhelming our spiritual senses. It was entirely wonderful. It was an unforgettable journey back-to-the-beginning of Christ’s journey here on earth and back-tothe-present of our continuing to follow His path. What an opportunity in this Year of Faith to stand in the footprints of our Savior, whose guiding light has illuminated the centuries and whose message must be widely shared in a society today that needs to Let Faith Lead the Way. We will be facing considerable struggles in the post-election environment – the struggle to protect life, to defend and preserve religious liberty, pursue the common good and strive to restore moral character in an increasingly secular culture. As Catholics, we will not shy away from our mission. I have returned from the unforgettable Holy Land pilgrimage with renewed energy to welcome the challenges before us and all the more certain that the teachings and example of Christ will strongly prevail. Sincerely yours in Christ’s love, Bishop Michael R. Cote
Peregrinación a Tierra Santa: Una Experiencia Inolvidable Queridos hermanos y Hermanas: Ahora que la elección presidencial ha sido decidida, debemos unirnos y abrazar la esperanza y la promesa de que Estados Unidos confiará a sí mismo sus valores esenciales de vida y libertad para todos. Para que la Iglesia lleve a
cabo su misión debemos estar seguros de que la libertad religiosa es protegida para todas las creencias. Sólo con esta seguridad haremos posible llevar a cabo la labor del Señor de levantar a nuestros hermanos y hermanas en necesidad, de defender la vida, de fortalecer
los valores de la familia, de honrar la verdad y de difundir la buena nueva del Evangelio. La medida de tiempo de el Año de la Fe, designado por el Santo Padre, el Papa Benedicto XVI, es excepcional. Durante este tiempo, estamos siendo llamados a redes-
cubrir y renovar nuestra fe y acercarnos más al Señor y a Sus enseñanzas. Mientras estemos más cerca a las raíces de nuestra fe, más preparados estaremos para ayudar a cumplir con la misión de la Iglesia en los tiempos cada vez más desafiantes en los que vivimos.
Me siento muy afortunado y bendecido por haber tenido el mes pasado la oportunidad de hacer mi primera peregrinación a Tierra Santa. Había programado tres veces una visita a Tierra Santa en Una experiencia inolvidable Continued on page 4
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Una experiencia inolvidable Continued from page 3 años anteriores y cada vez las circunstancias me impidieron hacer el viaje. Esta vez, mis compañeros peregrinos y yo hicimos el viaje, fue redescubrimiento de la fe. Ver con mis propios ojos donde vivió Jesús y donde ministró en la tierra fue una experiencia más allá de lo que yo había imaginado. Al principio, tuve la oportunidad de estar sentado en un pequeño bote de madera en el Mar de Galilea, mirando sobre las mismas colinas, orilla y agua que el Señor había visto dos mil años antes. Fue impecable. Inalterado en modo alguno por manos humanas o maquinarias. Incluso en el aire había una dulce fragancia que entiendo era de los árboles de eucalipto en las laderas. Fue un lugar encantador. Fue santo y sereno. Asombroso. Podía sentir la presencia de Jesús. La presencia de los discípulos. Cada parada trajo a la vida las Escrituras . A nuestros pies. Fue un privilegio el celebrar misa cada día y dirigir la lectura de las Escrit-
uras cada mañana-una liturgia o lectura apropiada para el escenario. Cuando una mañana visitamos el Monte Tabor, aproximadamente 10 millas al Oeste del Mar de Galilea, nuestra lectura diaria recordó la Transfiguración de Jesús, ya que incluía 2 Pedro 1: 18: “Nos escuchó esta voz venida del cielo cuando estábamos con él en el monte santo…” El santuario de ese lugar es la Iglesia de la Transfiguración y es supervisada por los frailes franciscanos quienes manejan impecablemete la mayor parte de los santuarios Cristianos en Tierra Santa. En el paisaje y la arquitectura más allá de la profundidad de la historia, se me ocurrieron dos observaciones . La primera es que las armas de fuego fueron raramente vistas en nuestro viaje. La ruta en que viajamos se sintió segura y reverente. El único escenario de armas fue en la frontera Nazaret/ Jerusalén y cruzando la frontera de Jericó. Otra observación fue que todos
los que conocimos parecían llevarse bien y a pesar de sus orígenes no parecían ser hostiles entre ellos. Por ejemplo, nuestro conductor era palestino y nuestro guía turístico judío. Se llevaban muy bien. Muy alentador presenciar esto. Visitamos el Monte de las Bienaventuranzas justo al norte de Galilea. Un lugar tranquilo visitado por ambos el Papa Juan Pablo II y el Papa Benedicto. Allí, leímos las Bienaventuranzas como nuestra lectura en este extraordinario escenario de la colina. Por cierto, todos aprendimos que en todas partes en el terreno en que viajamos el camino era montuoso y desnivelado. Seguro fue una prueba física. Cada parada tenía su propia experiencia maravillosa. Era Cana, el lugar del milagro del vino en agua en la fiesta de bodas. Allí alentamos a nuestro grupo de peregrinos a la renovación de votos de boda. Más tarde nos paramos en la orilla del Río Jordan, donde Juan Bautista ha bautizado a nuestro
Señor. Nosotros renovamos las promesas bautismales, allí en el borde poco profundo del antiguo Jordan. Jerusalén fue una escena extraordinaria para contemplar. La antigua ciudad amurallada con sus calles estrechas, sin automóviles, activa con vendedores, varios barrios e Iglesias denominacionales. Este lugar fue el mismo del evento culminante de la historia de la salvación- el misterio pascual de Cristo. Las calles y las piedras y partículas de arena dan testimonio silencioso de ese misterio. Jericó y Qumrán eran facinantes con la red de cuevas donde fueron descubiertos por primera vez los Rollos del Mar Muerto en 1947. Tantas escenas bíblicas volvieron a la vida. Nuestros sentidos espirituales estuvieron cerca de agobiarse. Todo fue maravilloso. Fue un viaje inolvidable deregreso-al-inicio del viaje de Cristo aquí en la tierra y de-regreso-alpresente para continuar siguiendo Su camino.
Que oportunidad en este Año de la fe pararse en las huellas de nuestro Salvador, quien guiando luz ha iluminado siglos y que su mensaje debe ser compartido ampliamente en una sociedad actual que necesita que la Fe Guíe el Camino. Después del entorno de las elecciones enfrentaremos luchas considerables-la lucha para proteger la vida, para defender y preservar la libertad religiosa, para buscar el bien común y para esforzarse por restaurar la moral en una cultura cada vez más secular. Como católicos, no nos espantaremos ante nuestra misión. Yo he regresado de la inolvidable peregrinación a Tierra Santa con energía renovada para dar la bienvenida a los desafíos que tenemos ante nosotros y confiado de que las enseñanzas y el ejemplo de Cristo prevalecerán firmemente. Sinceramente, en el amor de Cristo. Obispo Michael R. Cote
Rejoice in Hope Celebrate the Year of Faith RETREATS Days of Recollections December 5 Prepare the Way of the Lord Sr. Eugenia Brady, SJC
God invites us in the midst of the noise and distractions we face every day to a deeper and more intimate relationship with Him. Set some time aside for Him, book your retreat today!
(860) 5360565 www.endersisland.com
Recovery Weekend November 1618 11th Step on the Rock for Men Fr. Gerry O. SJ
Please visit our website for information about our Advent Programs.
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Praying for those Affected by Hurricane Sandy
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Director of Priestly Vocations
Reverend Gregory Galvin
A Blessing, A Grace, A Gift! Have you ever been at Holy Mass on Sunday and noticed a young high school or college aged gentleman who seemed really at peace, really prayerful, really at ease with being in church? Maybe you have noticed him just recently or in months past. Did you ever think that you were supposed to recognize him or that maybe you were receiving a grace from God, asking you to do something about what you noticed? Maybe that young man enjoys being at Holy Mass. Maybe he really finds himself at peace when he attends Holy Mass. Maybe he is not sure why he has that peace. Maybe he has thought a few times about what he should be doing with his life but is not sure that what he feels inside is real. Have you ever had the occasion to speak with that person? Do you know his family, his parents or siblings? Have you seen him involved in other parish activities during the year? Is he enthusiastic? Is he friendly? Do others see what you see? Have you ever mentioned him to your pastor? In the same way, have you ever
noticed a young high school or college age woman who seems to show some of the same traits? Why do I ask this? It very well could be that if you have ever noticed young people in this way it could be because at that moment God is giving you a grace to see something very important, both for that young person and possibly for the Church. If you simply dismiss that moment of light, of recognition, and do nothing, you, that young person and the church may all never know why you saw what you saw or thought what you thought. Instead, you may choose not to dismiss that moment of light, that moment of Grace and instead act by speaking with that person about what you recognized about him. Let him know that you see certain qualities in him that made you think the young man may make a great priest; or that a young lady may be called to consecrated life. You may in fact be acting as the instrument God has called you to be in that moment of light and recognition, to assist in confirming what may already be stirring inside each one of
Holy Hour for Vocations
them. It may be just the encouragement they need to propel them to discern with greater certainty what they inside might think they sense as a call from God but just are not sure if anyone else sees it. It is easy to see when two young people may be on the pathway towards married life. We might see them attending Holy Mass together on a regular basis and think to our selves, “what a nice young couple”. That is the more common situation. For the young man God might be drawing towards a priestly vocation or the young lady he might be asking to consecrate herself to Him for ever, it is not always as easy to discern if that interior sense is real. They may need help identifying what is happening inside of them. Many times God gives a grace to others to see it from the outside and He asks them, moves them, and encourages them to make it known. The key is never to dismiss those thoughts. Act on them with courage and thank God for the opportunity to be His instrument. You may find after acting the first time you may be called on again by God to continue assisting in identifying those He is calling. What a grace, what a blessing, what a gift!
The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich,leads the Holy Hour: November 15 • 4-5 pm St. Joseph Church, North Grosvenordale
December 20 • 7-8 pm St. Andrew Church, Colchester
Father Greg Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations vocations@norwichdiocese.net (860) 887-9294
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 Tomasz Wilk, OSPPE, new to the Diocese, Parochial Vicar, Saint Joseph Parish, Rockville. Effective: October 23, 2012. ~ Monsignor Robert L. Brown, Chancellor ~
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Saturday, November 17 Mercy High School Entrance Exam for the Class of 2017 1740 Randolph Rd. Middletown, from 8:00- 11:15am 860-346-6659 for more information or to register please call 860-346-6659 or visit www.mercyhigh.com.
Thanksgiving Prayer Father in Heaven, Creator of all and source of all goodness and love, please look kindly upon us and receive our heartfelt gratitude in this time of giving thanks. Thank you for all the graces and blessings, you have bestowed upon us, spiritual and temporal: our faith and religious freedom, our food and shelter, our health, the love we have for one another, our family and friends. Dear Father, in Your infinite generosity, please grant us continued graces and blessing throughout the coming year.
Saturday, November 17 The “Wonder” of Christmas at the Franciscan Christmas Fair 9:30 to 2:30pm at the Franciscan Life Center, 271 Finch Avenue, Meriden. Enjoy the Living Crèche, fresh homemade Franciscan breads, hand-decorated wreaths and live Christmas trees, Franciscan pottery, basket and quilt raffles, children’s booth with arts and crafts, refreshments and much more. Visit www.flcenter or call 203-2378084 for more information. Saturday, November 17 The Festival of Angels Fair 9:00am to 3:00pm at the Monsignor M. Davitt Fox Parish Center at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Middletown. Unique crafts, homemade baked goods, a Farmer’s Market and a variety of vendors. Breakfast and lunch will be available at the Angel Café. For additional information please call Sherrie at 860 346-4383 or email sherrie0119@yahoo.com. Saturday, November 17 St. Peter Church Candle Lit Christmas Fair A Candle Lit Christmas Fair; from 9:00am-7:00pm at St. Peter Church Hall, 30 St. Peter Lane Higganum. Christmas trees, wreaths, antiques, woodworking, baked goods, knitted items, sewn clothing for 18 inch dolls, pocketbooks and so much more!! Mr. and Mrs. Claus will arrive around 12:00 p.m. and pictures can be taken while you shop. A variety of lunch items including our traditional kielbasa & sauerkraut sandwiches, quiche, soups, etc. will be available for purchase. Do not forget our basket raffle,
silent auction and big raffle. Something for everyone! Our 2nd Annual Lasagna/Ziti Dinner will be served following the 5:00pm Mass. Cost - adults ($12), children under 10 ($5). Advanced ticket purchase recommended. Takeout will be available on a limited basis. Please contact Elizabeth Yantosh at 860- 345-3191 if you have any questions. Wednesday, November 28 Prayer Group Mass of Healing and Hope At 7:30pm, Life in the Spirit Prayer Group, 33 West St., Rockville, CT. Saturday, December 1 Mount Saint John Christmas Boutique 2012 Crafters and Artisans wanted to display wares at the annual Mount Saint John Christmas Boutique in Deep River, from 10:00am – 3:00pm. Live Entertainment by MSJ Choir and visits from Santa. To reserve a table as a vendor, or for more information, please contact Vicki McKenney at 860-343-1340 or mckenneyv@mtstjohn.org. Sunday, December 2 Gift of Grace Prison Ministry Training Program Prison Ministry is now seeking volunteers for the Gift of Grace Prison Ministry Training Program on Sunday, December 2. For more information, please contact Sheree Antoch at 860.848.2237. Wednesday, December 5 Prayer Group Mass of Healing and Hope At 7:00pm, Spirit of Love Prayer Group, 130 Prospect St., Moosup. Saturday, December 8 Advent Mission A one-night Advent Mission at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, 7-9 pm. Open to all ages this mission will have a special message for young people. It will feature a live concert by Catholic artists Sarah Kroger and Greg
Boudreaux, with speaking by Dom Quaglia. Through music, speaking and reflection participants will be invited to enter more deeply into the season of Advent in preparing a place for Jesus to be incarnate in their own lives. For more information on the mission please contact Jill Patten at (860)4603947 and to learn more about the presenters, visit www.facebook.com/ 2012AdventMission. Saturday, December 15 St. Mark’s 7th Annual Christmas Cookie Sale 9:00am- 12:00pm (or till sold out.) Plates of 2 ½ dozen assorted, delicious home-baked cookies ($10.00) will be
sold, along with our parish cookbook “Cookie Jar Favorites.” Themed baskets and a beautiful cable-knit afghan will be raffled. Proceeds will benefit the landscaping of the church grounds, with a portion going toward St. Mark’s Haitian Ministry. St. Mark the Evangelist Church, Westbrook. For further information, please call Joan at 860388-9675 or Julia at 860-388-5186. Every Tuesday at 7:00pm Prayer, Praise, Worship and Adoration Spiritual Renewal Services Center, 11 Bath St. Norwich. Leaders: Deacon James Delaney and Nancy Delaney.
Advent Begins December 2, 2012
All-powerful God, help us to look forward in hope to the coming of our Savior. May we live as he taught, ready to welcome him with burning love and faith.
The Hispanic People of the Diocese of Norwich invite you to join us in our celebration of
The Feast of
Our Lady of Guadalupe Wednesday, December 12 at 6:30 pm Cathedral of Saint Patrick • 213 Broadway, Norwich, CT For more information, please call (860) 456-3349 or email: aposthispano@juno.com
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Celebrating the Life of Virtue: St. Edmund’s Retreat Honors Modern-Day Role Models for Service to Church and Community MYSTIC - Shortly after Darren J. Stewart and Beth-Ann Stewart had their first child, By Shelley Wolf Four County Catholic Contributor
Tessa, they discussed the values they hoped to instill in their daughter. After much discussion, the new parents narrowed it down to 13 values, and then proceeded to paint those words on the 13 risers of the stairway in their Stonington family home. Starting at the bottom with “perseverance” as the foundation, they painted the words perseverance, integrity, courage, compassion, family, peace, respect, love, honesty, laughter, faith, patience, and wisdom — until they reached the top. The new parents thought that if their children saw those words in writing each day, it would help to reinforce the values that were necessary to successfully navigate the trials of life, to be good Catholics, and to be good citizens. But at the same time, Darren and Beth-Ann sensed that they might need this visual daily reminder just as much, if not more, than their children would. Today Darren and Beth-Ann Stewart are the parents of three teenage daughters. And these parents not only live their values at home but also in their jobs and in their local and regional community. Darren Stewart serves as the Stonington Chief of Police, while BethAnn Stewart serves as Stonington’s first Director of Human Services. In addition, both teach graduate level courses in their respective fields at Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island. “We’re both very close to the Salve community,” Darren Stewart said. “We try to live the values of Salve Regina by working toward a more just, merciful, and harmo-
nious world.” On October 5, the Stewarts and five other worthy men and women were awarded the St. Edmund’s Medal of Honor in an elegant and uplifting ceremony and dinner at the Mystic Marriott. Each year, the St. Edmund’s Retreat Board of Directors recognizes a select group of men and women on the local, regional, and national scene, who are living quiet lives of virtue and humbly serving as modern-day role models of exceptional service to the Church and to the community — in the spirit of St. Edmund of Canterbury. In addition to the Stewarts, this year’s medal recipients included Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi of the Archdiocese of Mobile, Alabama; Michael Samara, former vice president of student affairs and dean of students at St. Michael’s College in Colchester, Vermont; and Dominican Sisters Maurice Doody and Rose Patricia Reilly of the Office of New Directions in the Bronx, New York. The St. Edmund Honor Scholarship was awarded to Kevin Peters, St. Bernard Class of 2013. “Their stories and what they’ve dedicated their lives to is remarkable,” said Diane Kinney, director of development at St. Edmund’s Retreat on Enders Island. “They are living the word of God.” Jeffrey Anderson, Executive Director and COO of St. Edmunds Retreat agreed. “They intuitively know what is just and right,” Anderson said. “They were chosen for being fully human, for doing ordinary things but for doing them extraordinarily well.” In the invocation prayer, the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich, praised the honorees “for the Christ-like examples they have exhibited in life. We bless them for their kindness,” Bishop Cote said.
Photos by Donna Antonacci
Award recipients Beth-Ann Stewart and Darren J. Stewart.
Prior to the medals ceremony at the Mystic Marriott, Bishop Cote celebrated a special Mass in honor of the occasion at the Chapel of Our Lady of the Assumption at Ender’s Island in Mystic. During the Mass, music was provided by the St. Bernard Choir, and the Knights of Columbus were in attendance. During the awards ceremony at the Marriott, the Most Reverend Daniel A. Cronin, Archbishop Emeritus of Hartford, offered a final benediction. The accomplishments of the medal recipients are numerous. Here are a few highlights: This past spring, Darren Stewart, the Stonington chief of police, was recognized by the Police Commissioners’ Association of Connecticut with the Distinguished Chiefs
Award. He is the current President of the Law Enforcement Council of Eastern Connecticut. He also teaches graduate courses on social and ethical issues in law enforcement management at Salve Regina University and at the University of Connecticut. During his four years as chief, he
instituted a number of programs including upgrades in technology, the department’s first canine program, and the Youth Positive Ticket program in which police officers “catch” kids who exhibit good behavior, such as wearing a bike helCelebrating the Life of Virtue Continued on page 8
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Celebrating the Life of Virtue Continued from page 7 met, and reinforce that good behavior with small rewards, such as gift certificates for an ice cream or soda or a free pass to Mystic Marine Aquarium. Darren Stewart’s most satisfying moments on the job come from service to others. “It’s always satisfying when you’re able to help someone when they need it,” he said, “to have a successful resolution to a case for the families, the victims, and for society — that’s satisfying.” Beth-Ann Stewart is the first di-
rector of Human Services for Stonington. As such she reorganized the once autonomous Recreation, Senior Services, Social Services, and Youth and Family Services under one umbrella and has expanded their reach by securing donations and grants. Much of her work has involved tackling the problems of affordable housing, homelessness, and food insecurity. She was the past Chair of the Mystic Area Shelter & Hospitality and is the current Chair of the Southeastern Connecticut Housing Alliance. What is it that gives her the greatest satisfaction on the job? “Making a difference in an individual’s life, which strengthens them, their family, and in turn, the community,” she said. “I particularly enjoy watching children benefit from our programming.” Special services for Stonington youth include after school programs, counseling, a teen prom shop, help finding a first job, and partnerships with other area agencies to provide new school
shoes and winter boots. Kevin Peters of East Lyme, Connecticut, garnered this year’s Medal of Honor Scholarship. At St. Bernard School in Montville he is a member of the Yearbook Club, tennis team, Student Council, and National Art Honor Society. Kevin is also a local volunteer for Special Olympics, where he helps with swimming and softball — revealing himself as a young person of virtue and promise. The Most Reverend Thomas J. Rodi is this year’s national recipient of the St. Edmund’s Medal of Honor. He holds graduate degrees in law and canon law, and has served as Vicar General of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, Bishop of Biloxi, Mississippi, and is currently Archbishop of Mobile, Alabama. After Hurricane Katrina struck Biloxi in 2005, then Bishop Rodi led the rebuilding effort of the Diocese of Biloxi as well as the humanitarian efforts of Catholic Social Services. The challenge was enor-
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mous: more than 200 people were killed during the storm, and onethird of all churches in the diocese and two-thirds of all Catholic schools were completely destroyed or rendered unusable. For his work, he received the National Catholic Education Association’s St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award. Archbishop Rodi has spent much of his career as an advocate for the marginalized in society throughout the South. During the awards ceremony, he thanked the Edmonites for their work in serving the rural poor in Alabama. “For 75 years, the Edmonites have brought the love of God to people who have not always felt the dignity that God has bestowed on them,” Archbishop Rodi said. “Thank you for bringing the love of God to so many people.” Sister Maurice Doody and Sister Rose Patricia Reilly currently serve as Co-Directors of the Office of New Directions, which was founded in the Bronx in 1975 as a full-time ministry devoted to educating religious communities about alcoholism and chemical dependency. Sister Maurice is a nationallyrecognized motivational speaker and retreat leader, and is the former chairperson for the board of directors of the National Catholic Council on Alcoholism and Related Drug Problems. “They have comforted and cared
for thousands with compassion, wisdom and humor,” said Patrick Lynch, before presenting Sisters Maurice and Rose with their medals. “It’s always been a thrill to cross that bridge and be with those good people,” Sister Rose said of St. Edmund’s Retreat and its staff. “I am honored, I am humbled, and I am grateful that Father Tom and the Board of Trustees have good judgment!” Sister Maurice said in her characteristic good humor. Michael Samara was recognized for his work as Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students at St. Michael’s College in Colchester, Vermont. He has degrees in history, psychology, and education, and took a special interest in counseling, psychotherapy, and personnel services. Father Thomas F.X. Hoar, president of St. Edmund’s Retreat, presented the award, saying that he had worked on staff at St. Michael’s himself for a few years and saw Samara’s work up close. “He comforted and consoled students when they fell short of their dreams and encouraged them to try again,” Father Hoar said. “As someone who calls himself a Christian, I try to follow Christ each day, but I fail at that,” Michael Samara said. “But every day is a new day to try again.”
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Married Couples Renew Wedding Vows at the Silver and Gold Jubilee Anniversary Mass Married couples from parishes throughout our Diocese came together to participate in the CeleBy Susan Williams Office of Family Life/Catholic Charities
bration of God’s Gift of Love and the Sacrament of Marriage in the renewal of their wedding vows at the Annual Silver and Gold Jubilee Anniversary Mass at the Cathedral of St. Patrick on Sunday, October 21st. Couples celebrating their silver, gold or other significant anniversaries to the couples renewed their marriage vows in the Pontifical Mass celebrated by Bishop
Michael R. Cote which was witnessed by about 200 family members and friends. What a beautiful experience to have their family being present to witness and share in their renewal of vows. Along with 60 couples participating, four couples celebrated sixty or more years of marriage. Robert and Marguerite Cloutier, parishioners from St. Stephens in Quinebaug, were honored by Bishop Cote as celebrating sixty-five years of marriage, the longest married couple renewing their vows at the Mass. The Cloutiers were married at St. Joseph’s Church in North
Grosvenordale in 1947 and have five children and five grandchildren. Robert is an honored World War II veteran. Certificates commemorating the renewal of the marriage vows and the blessing of their marriage of the couples were awarded by Bishop Cote. Following the Pontifical Mass, celebrating couples along with their family and friends enjoyed spending time with Bishop Cote in the Cathedral Hall and refreshments were enjoyed by all. Photo by Donna Antonacci
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Bishop Leads Final Mass at St. Anne’s Griswold, Conn. — St. Anne Catholic Church was likened to an old friend by its spiritual leader as By James Mosher Reprint from the Bulletin
Mass was celebrated there for the final time on Sunday. “It’s kind of like a funeral,” the Rev. Ted Tumicki told a crowd of about 120 assembled in the church in the Glasgo section of Griswold for the final time. “Our faith reminds us that funerals are not final good-byes.”
The church was shut after 121 years because of deteriorating building conditions. It would cost between $375,000 and $500,000 to make needed repairs, Tumicki told the congregation in an April letter. St. Anne parishioners were urged to continue their Christian commitment by the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich, who officiated at Sunday’s service. He spoke words of encouragement to congregants upon their arrival at St. Thomas the Apostle
Church in Voluntown. The two institutions are merging under the name Saints Thomas and Anne Catholic Church. “This is not an easy time, but we are filled with faith,” Bishop Cote said. “As you make this transition, I see the people of St. Anne’s meeting the moment.” After a one-hour Mass at St. Anne, whose attendees included Griswold First Selectman Philip Anthony and State Rep. Steve Mikutel, D-Griswold, parishioners took artifacts from the church and walked nearly three miles in a procession under state police escort to the Voluntown church. “I feel very honored,” said Terry Allard of Griswold, who plays the organ at St. Thomas and was chosen to carry the St. Anne’s relic to
its new home. “I’m 72 years ago and I’m happy to say I feel great after that walk.” Nicholas Mattera, 16, of Griswold, who is studying for his confirmation, said he is impressed with how people are reacting to what Bishop Cote called “a new adventure in faith.” “I’ve been going to St. Anne my whole life,” Mattera said. “There was a lot of unity today. It felt great.” St. Anne has been a mission church of St. Thomas almost from the time of its beginnings in 1891. It was built by French Canadian employees of a mill, Glasgo Finishing Co., which donated the land to build the church. Parishioner Ron Becotte of Voluntown is collecting St. Anne’s pic-
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tures and documents to be published in a book slated to be available around Christmas or Easter, he said. “It’s very important to remember,” he said. “It strengthens our Catholic faith.” Father Tumicki called upon his flock to remember their former church home and the personal dimension it took on for many. The final Mass was dedicated to St. Anne congregants, living and dead. “They saw it not only as a church, but also as a kind of personal chapel,” Father Tumicki said in his homily. “The kind of chapel that was not only a place but a kind of old friend. One that sheltered and listened, offering protection and solace. A friend that we thank God for having.”
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Four County Catholic November 2012
The Sacrament of Orders: Bishop, Priest and Deacon The Sacrament of Orders is a foundation stone of Church ministry and of the Church By Sister Elissa Rinere, CP, JCD Office of Worship
itself. Each of the sacrament’s three degrees, Bishop, Priest and Deacon, has its own history of development, and each is integral to the history of the whole Church. For some centuries, the theology of this sacrament was focused primarily on priesthood. Diaconate was the last transitional step before ordination to priesthood. When priests were named by the Pope to be bishops, the new bishop was consecrated and installed in his diocese, but there was no new ordination rite. Now, there are three separate ordination rites, one for each degree of the sacrament. An essential element in each of the rites is the ancient gesture known as the imposition of hands, when the ordaining bishop, in silence, places his hands on the head of the one being ordained. The imposition of hands is mentioned several times in the New Testament as the means through which the apostles brought others into their ministry. Filled with liturgical richness, this gesture signifies the passing on of the ministry Christ entrusted to the Church, as well as the incorporation of the one being ordained into the hierarchy. The imposition of hands, together with the prayer of
consecration which follows, constitute what is referred to as the matter and form of the Sacrament of Orders. Since Vatican II, the theological emphasis of the sacrament has shifted
from a focus on priesthood to the interrelationship between the three degrees of the sacrament. Priests who are called to serve as bishops are now ordained to the episcopacy. This ordination is understood to be the fullness of the Sacrament of Orders. In his own diocese, a bishop carries out his ministry of being chief shepherd of the people through a particular ministerial relationship with the priests and permanent deacons of the diocese. Priests and deacons, each in their own way, cooperate in the ministry of the diocesan bishop. Thus, the three degrees of the sacrament are related, for the good of the whole local church. Then, theologically and through the signs and symbols of the ordination liturgies, the three degrees of the sacrament are placed in a relationship of service to the priesthood of the faithful which is rooted in Baptism (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1547). Also since Vatican II, the office of
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deacon has changed considerably. Initially, we find mention of deacons in the Acts of the Apostles 6:1-7. The call to ministry of the first deacons was tied to the need for charitable works within the early Christian community, while the mission of preaching and teaching was exercised by the apostles. Over the course of several centuries, the role of the deacon as one who did charitable work in the community faded, and the office of deacon was absorbed into the course of preparation for the priesthood. Any man who was ordained a deacon was a transitional deacon; that is, he was on the path to priesthood. In 1972, Pope Paul VI reordered many aspects of the Sacrament of Orders and re-established what we now know as the Permanent Diaconate. Now, many dioceses throughout the world have formation programs and courses of study for men who desire to serve the Church as permanent deacons. Because of the centrality of the sacramental system in the Catholic Church, ordained ministry is integral to the living out of our faith. Especially with this in mind, it is fitting that we often pray for the ordained ministers of our Church, and appreciate both the difficulties and the responsibilities of their ministry.
Golden Jubilee Sister Elissa Rinere, C.P., J.C.D., celebrated her Golden Jubilee as a Sister of the Cross and Passion with her family and friends on Saturday, September 8, 2012, the actual day Sister Elissa entered the order. The Jubilee Mass was held in the Chapel of Our Lady of Calvary Retreat Center in Farmington. Bishop Cote celebrated the Mass and several diocesan priests concelebrated. After Mass, a reception was held in the courtyard and dining hall of the Retreat Center. Sister Elissa is the Director of the Office of Pastoral Planning and the Office of Worship for the Diocese of Norwich. Sister is also a judge in the Norwich Diocesan Tribunal.
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Your Good Deeds Bring Thanksgiving to So Many
St. Joseph Living Center, Windham This November as we gather around the Thanksgiving table with those who are dear to us, it is heartBy MaryLou Gannotti Director of Planned Giving
ening to know that your good deeds have allowed so many others to give thanks. The 2012 Annual Catholic Ap-
genders gratitude from the Haitian child who now has a roof over his head after the devastating earthquake of 2010. Your gift helps to feed the hungry family who visits the local soup kitchen. Your gift makes the financial sacrifice of paying for Catholic School more bearable for the parents of a student receiving tuition assistance. Your gift reaches out to our Diocesan youth, who are able to attend such faith inspiring events as Youth Explosion, retreats, and conferences. Your gift helps to take care of the elderly, sick and infirmed. These describe just some of the grateful faces who benefit from the Annual Catholic Appeal. There are
peal, “To Love and Serve the Lord,� will conclude on December 31, 2012. To date, parishioners in our Diocese came forward to pledge nearly $3 million to the ACA. These funds go to support a variety of programs, ministries, services, and most importantly, people in need. Your generosity and stewardship is truly appreciated. You can see the gratitude in the faces of those who benefit from the Annual Catholic Appeal. Your gift to the ACA does make a difference to the young mother who chooses life for her baby through adoption at Catholic Charities. Your gift to the ACA en-
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Reasonable Hourly Rates Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony Holy St Anthony gentlest of Saints. Your love for God and charity for His creators made you worthy when on earth posses miraculous power which you were ready to speak for those who are in trouble or anxiety. 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 heart is full of human sympathy whisper my petition into the ears of sweet infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. This 13 day Novena has never been known to fail. Say three Hail Mary's and three Glories and promise publication.
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many more thanks to your generosity. If a picture is worth 1,000 words, the smile on a thankful face is priceless. Gifts to the Annual Catholic Appeal display a tremendous amount of mercy in helping others, giving so much to so many in need. Your continued support will and does make a difference. If you have given to the 2012 Annual Catholic Appeal, thank you. If you have not yet made your gift, please consider doing so by contacting the Office of Development, 197 Broadway, Norwich, CT 06360, or donating online at www.norwich diocesedevelopment.org. For further information, please call 860-886-1928.
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Church Approved Method of Birth Control Increases Communication in Couples Among the many services offered in the Diocese by Catholic Charities is a church-sanctioned By Colleen Egan
method of teaching about sexuality called Natural Family Planning (NFP). Natural Family Planning allows a married couple to know when the woman is fertile and when she is not. Susan Williams of Catholic Charities’ Office of Family Life says the method is really important around the country, given the widespread use of the pill and other contraceptive methods. The Catholic Church does not accept those methods. Rather, the bishops have approved NFP. NFP is not the rhythm method. That method, taught in the 1930, did not work well because women’s menstrual cycles can be irregular.
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The Sympto-Thermal Method of NFP is a system of checking physical signs in the woman. The woman takes her temperature every day and looks for cervical signs. With these signs women can know every day whether she is in a fertile or infer-
tile state and can decide with her partner either to seek pregnancy or avoid pregnancy. A change in temperature tells a woman when she is ovulating. This method helps women who are irregular if they are having
trouble getting pregnant. Taught by Susan Williams, by couples in the Diocese and on DVD, men and women attend three classes over three months so they will have experience with the method by the time classes end. Communication is one of the side effects of NFP because there are decisions that need to be made together between husband and wife depending where a women is in her cycle. Catholic moral teaching rejects all other methods of birth control, and, of course, abortions. Instead of this being thought of as restrictive, Williams says NFP is free and accurate and within the Church’s teachings.
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Ledyard Bazaar Takes People’s Minds Off Hurricane Sandy Storm Damage For 50 years, the guild at Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church has kicked off the holiday By ADAM BENSON Reprint from the Bulletin
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When Sandy hit on that Monday, organizers feared the bazaar might be in jeopardy, but the church on Route 12 never lost power. And with the kitchen fully functioning, calling off the bazaar was never a question. Cups of steaming chili and chowders, sandwiches and pies were available for purchase — the first hot meal some patrons enjoyed since Monday. “We were hoping that would help us. It’s a great way for people to come in here and get a warm meal, talk to folks and get away from things,” guild member Donna Lacey, of Waterford, said. In addition to the food, rows of Christmas ornaments, hand-made jewelry, linens and silent auction items were for sale. The proceeds go toward church functions and allow members to buy goods for area nonprofits. “It’s a happy atmosphere, and we need that right now,” Pat Arsenault of Ledyard said. “You see people here that you haven’t seen in a year or more.” Five days later, power remained out to 1,195 Ledyard customers — or 18 percent of the entire town, according to Connecticut Light & Power. Monika Verebelyi, of Gales Ferry, said the disruption to the lives of parishioners during the power outage served as motivation heading into Saturday. “Once we knew we’d be able to cook, there was no calling it off,” she said. “It’s just a way to get people’s minds off what’s been going on.”
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Letter to the Editor November 2, 2012 - As some of you know, I am a part-time chef at St. Vincent de Paul Place in Norwich. I am writing this letter because of our shared belief in religious freedom and social justice. Both of these issues relate to the work of St. Vincent de Paul Place and our ability to make a new home in the former St Joseph School building. The need to vacate our previous home in the old train depot due to major structural repairs came quite suddenly in the middle of this year. It was a scramble to move to St Joseph School so we could continue our services without interruption. Under the circumstances we were glad to get a 6-month temporary permit. This permit will expire in January 2013. There are many advantages to our remaining at the former St Joseph School on Cliff Street. It is less than ½ mile from our previous location, the building is spacious, and it is already the property of the Diocese. It has been vacant since the school closed in June 2010. We believe there is strong legal precedent for us to operate from the former St Joseph’s school. In the first place, relocation of St. Vincent de Paul Place to the St. Joseph’s School is not a change in the underlying use of the property. The work of St. Vincent de Paul Place, founded in the religious belief of helping those in need, is essentially a religious activity and, as such, is already allowed on church property. As stated in the by-laws, our purpose is to “help fulfill the goals and mission of the Roman Catholic Church in its ministry and service to the poor, needy and homeless located in the Diocese of Norwich, regardless of their race, color, creed and religion.” Furthermore, it is customary use of church property to provide charitable services, including soup kitchens and food pantries. St Joseph’s Church has been active at its location since 1904. The relocation of St. Vincent’s to St Joseph’s school is in harmony with the religious use that has been part of the neighborhood for more than a century. Secondly, charitable use on
church property is a religious use protected by the U.S. and Connecticut Constitutions. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution provides that Congress “shall make no law respecting an establishment of religious, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,” which has been applied to the states through the Fourteenth Amendment. Government regulations or enforcement “that substantially burden the exercise of sincerely held religious beliefs [are] subject to strict scrutiny,” and are unconstitutional unless they are narrowly tailored to advance compelling governmental interests. Likewise, the federal Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act, 42 U.S.C. § 2000cc (“RLUIPA”) prohibits governments from imposing or enforcing land use regulations “in a manner that imposes a substantial burden on the religious exercise” of individuals or organizations unless it demonstrates that the burden “(A) is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest; and (B) it is the least restrictive means of furthering that compelling governmental interest.” In our case, any restriction on St. Vincent’s ability to continue operating at the St Joseph school property would impose a substantial burden on our free exercise of religion. The legal rights described above have been presented to the Town Planning Commission supported by citations of several federal and state cases with similar circumstances and in which rulings were entered in favor of the religious organization. We believe we have made a good case. We understand, too, that the neighbors are concerned. We have told the commission that St. Vincent de Paul Place respects and appreciates their concerns. We will work with them, as we have in the past – in connection with the school operations and special events at the church – to minimize impact. We hope the neighbors will come to realize that when you live near a church, you are neighbors to an institution which represents a larger community and is living out the following instruction: “For I was
hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me . . . Whatever you did for one of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” There is an enormous gap between rich and poor in our country, with an accelerating increase in this disparity over the past 30 years. The individuals whom we serve at St. Vincent’s are the human faces to these statistics. Our soup kitchen provides two hot meals, six days a week, totaling almost 7,000 meals per month. Our pantry provides ingredients and food to the working poor. In the past year, the pantry helped over 1100 different households in which over 1000 children live. I am writing to you because St. Vincent’s needs your support. This is a social justice issue, but it is also a challenge to the Church’s religious freedom. Some action steps that we thought of so far include writing a letter to the editor (The Day or Bulletin or Courant) and/or talking about this issue on the pulpit or in the class room. Perhaps you might organize visits to St. Vincent de Paul Place in Norwich or your local soup kitchen or food pantry to get involved. We are also developing a neighborhood improvement campaign. If you want to get more involved with St. Vincent de Paul Place directly we would love to have you join in our planning discussions. We are also looking for volunteers to Adopt a Block in our neighborhood, in a program similar to the one originated by the Dream Center in California and now adopted by many ministries throughout the nation. The next public hearing is November 20, 2012 at 7 PM at the Council Chambers in the Norwich City Hall. Your presence at the hearing would be a physical show of support for the mission of St. Vincent de Paul Place and the services it provides to those in need in the Greater Norwich area. We would greatly appreciate that. In Christ, who came to serve and not be served, I wish you peace,
Deacon Peter L. Gill, Middlefield
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Four County Catholic November 2012
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Deepening the Call to Love ~ Embracing the Challenge of Charity The Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church, a papal institute with its motherhouse in Baltic, CT, recently renewed its charism and spirit by joining members together in prayer and deliberation at its General Chapter of Affairs and Elections, July 5-19. Through meetings during the preceding months, the Sister together developed the chapter theme – “Deepening the Call to Love – Embracing the Challenge of Charity.” Following the Chapter of Affairs, Bishop Michael R. Cote, presided at the Chapter of Elections. Mother Marie Julie Saegaert was elected Superior General for the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church. Mother has served on the General Council as Second Counselor, for the past six
years. She has also taught in several schools in the Dioceses of Norwich, Bridgeport, and Hartford. Mother was principal of St. John School in Old Saybrook and was Assistant Principal in the Academy of the Holy Family. She served as the Director of Pastoral Care Services at St. Joseph Living Center in Windham and later as the Administrator of St. Elizabeth Nursing Home in Janesville, Wisconsin. She was an adjunct instructor in the English department at Upper Iowa University, Janesville Campus, as well as an adjunct instructor in the Healthcare Administration and English departments of Concordia University. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Institute of Religious Life. Mother Marie Julie speaks well of and lives well the chosen theme of the Sisters. Her
own theme for her term of office is, “Hearts to serve, hearts to bless, hearts to understand through the Heart of Jesus.” Mother M. David Riquier, elected First Assistant, was the Principal of Sacred Heart School in Taftville, and currently is also the Motherhouse Superior. Mother M. Anthony Lemire, elected as Second Assistant, is the former Superior General, and is currently Director of Formation for the Sisters of Charity. Mother Mary Jude Lazarus is the Third Assistant and is also the Director of Hispanic Ministry for the Diocese of Norwich. Mother M. Christina VanBeck, the Fourth Assistant, is the former Assistant Principal and teacher at the Academy of the Holy Family, and is currently the Principal of Sacred Heart School, Taftville.
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Formation Program for Permanent Deacons The Diocese of Norwich is now in the process of reestablishing the formation By Sister Elissa Rinere, CP, JCD Office of Worship
program for men seeking ordination to the permanent diaconate. The diaconate formation program had been suspended because questions had arisen within the diocese, and also in other dioceses around the country, about the proper role of permanent deacons, especially in our parishes. There was concern that the permanent deacon’s role was becoming almost exclusively tied to parish or liturgical involvement, at the expense of the ministry of charity in the wider community. In the Diocese of Norwich, a study committee was established to look at the theology of the permanent diaconate and to make recommendations for any changes needed to the formation program as it was then functioning. The committee went through some changes of its own, but final recommendations were submitted to Bishop Cote early in 2012.
On June 9, 2012, Bishop Cote published a pastoral letter on the permanent diaconate (Diakonia: Instrument of God’s Own Charity), ending the suspension of the formation program, and putting into place an Advisory Board which would oversee the details needed to bring the program back to its full functioning. The major change in the formation program, in keeping with the theology and proper role of the permanent deacon, involves a stronger emphasis on service to the wider community in a variety of capacities. Those men seeking admission to candidacy will make a primary commitment to charitable service in the community. Secondarily, permanent deacons will offer liturgical ministry to a parish community. The permanent diaconate in the Roman Catholic Church was restored by Pope Paul VI in 1972, several centuries after it had been absorbed into the course of study for priesthood.
Since that restoration, the permanent diaconate has been available to men, married or single, who feel called to serve the Church as ordained ministers. The model for the ministry of permanent deacons is found in the Acts of the Apostles (Chapter 6: 1-7), when seven men were called forth to care for the poor and needy in the Christian community, allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and preaching. Beginning in January 2013, men interested in the permanent diaconate in the Diocese of Norwich may initiate the admission process by submitting a preliminary application form to the Diaconate Advisory Board. The application process consists of three stages, and final decisions about acceptance will be made by June 2013. Those men accepted into the program will begin the first year of the five year formation program in September 2013. Information about applica-
tions forms for men, married or single, interested in serving the Church as permanent deacon is now available. Preliminary applications may be submitted beginning in January 2013. Final decisions on admission to the formation program will be made
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~ MM ~
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Four County Catholic November 2012
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Four County Catholic November 2012
In Gratitude for Daily Blessings It is difficult at times to find the divine in the daily, busy routine of life. Yet God sometimes By Mary Tunison
presents us with moments of grace and wonder – little reminders of His presence and hand at work. Often they come softly and subtly – and, if not attune to their reality, can frequently go unnoticed. I take country back roads for the major portion of my commute to work and like to drive at an “observatory speed” on the return trip home, letting nature’s quietness and beauty sink in. Once in a while, something really blows me away. As an unknown author once put it, “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” This was certainly true of a recent experience I had. This past summer, while swimming in an outdoor pool, I had some time to reminisce. Strongly feeling the loss of my sister, Pat, who had passed away in May 2011, I longed for some assurance of her presence in my life. She was the last family member I had on this earth. In her early 20’s, Pat was drawn to explore our Irish heritage through a visit to Ireland. Well, something magical must
have happened while there, for it ignited her life-long passion. Captivated by its beauty and charm, she dedicated her life to promoting Ireland through books, articles and tours. She worked her way up from information desk to Director of Public Relations for the United States and Canada at the Irish Tourist Board in New York City and worked
there for many years before going freelance. I don’t think anyone had a more thorough workable knowledge of that Country. Even Irish-born natives dubbed her The Queen of Ireland. So, while floating around the pool one summer’s eve, I whispered a prayer for some consolation, some signature of her presence – perhaps a shamrock? A day or two passed. My mind turned to other things. Puttering around the garden one evening, my eyes were drawn to a small patch of greenery. At first glance, it looked like common clover,
just weeds infiltrating my tomato patch but something prompted me to take a closer look. Mind you, I had forgotten all about my pool ponderings a few days back. Upon closer examination, I realized they were bona fide shamrocks. “O Wow,” I thought, “real shamrocks,” Then came the instant recall – the prayer! It’s difficult to explain, but afterwards, it seemed evident that those subtle, guided moments of discovery were not just coincidental. This Thanksgiving, we will pause to remember and express our gratitude for the many blessings we have received -- grace-filled moments, nature’s beauty, friends and family (those still with us and those who have passed on) and much more. May we always be attentive to and grateful for the small miracles that abound all around us. This Thanksgiving, for whom or what will you give thanks? Mary Tunison works for Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of Hartford, and is a freelance writer, artist, and designer.
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Holy St Anthony gentlest of Saints. Your love for God and charity for His creators made you worthy when on earth posses miraculous power which you were ready to speak for those who are in trouble or anxiety. 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 heart is full of human sympathy whisper my petition into the ears of sweet infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. This 13 day Novena has never been known to fail. Say three Hail Mary's and three Glories and promise publication.
~ SG ~
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Four County Catholic November 2012
We de dedicate dedicatte our love, l , compa compassion passion i andd service e i ervice to our communit com mmunnity. it t our s &/2 3(/24 4%2- 2%(!"),)4! !4)/. ).#,5$).' 0(93)#!, 30%%#( /##50!4)/.!, )6 4(%2!09 s s /24(/0%$)# 2%(!"),)4! !4)/. s 342/+% 2%#/6%29 s %.$ /& ,)&% #!2% s ,/.' 4%2- #!2% s
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Four County Catholic November 2012
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Four County Catholic November 2012
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In 1871 - A “volunteerr army” of 1,700 Catholic immigrants dug the foundation forr Saint Patrick’s Patrick’s Church Church
D Diocese iocese o off No Norwich rwich Br dw dwa 213 Broa waay Norwich, Norwich, CT CT 06360 Telephone: Telephone: 860-889-8441 E-m mail: ail: st stpa s atsnorwich@sbcglobal.net snorwich@sbcglobal.net st atsno snorwich.org Website: ite: www. ww stpa rwich.org
Donor Recognition
Bishop Cote Society $15,000
Those who donate at a specific level of Life of Christ Ceiling Mural Sponsorship In 1879 - Saint Patrick’s Patrick’s Church Church was formally opened and $1,000 or more will be recognized in a dedicated Bishop Hart Society $10,000 book of remembrance to be displayed In 1953 - The church church became Saint Patrick’s Patrick’s Cathedral prominently at the Cathedral of Saint Sanctuary Stained Glass Mural Panel Sponsorship when the Diocese of Norwich was created created Patrick. Family members might also Bishop Reilly Society $5,000 In 2010 - Restoration of the Cathedral began thanks to a wish to honor a loved one through their Stations of the Cr C oss Frame Fram Sponsorship generous generous bequest from from a parishioner contribution. Stations of the Cross Frames Bishop Hines Society $2,500 Today - We link the past to the present present and the present present to sponsors, Sanctuary Stained Glass Mural the future future as we restore restore and preserve preserve our mother Column Sponsorship Panel Sponsors, and Life of Christ Ceiling church church - the Cathedral of Saint Patrick. Mural Sponsors will be provided with Bishop Flanagan Society $1,000 SPIRIT SPIR RIT name or memorial recognition in the form Ceiling Boss Sponsorship Saint Saint Patrick Patrick Cathedral IsIs RRestored estored IInn TTradition radition of a nameplate or plaque. Naming and Memorial Opportunities ar aree pr present esent at all of the gift giving levels. Sponsorship plaques will be placed in the Cathedral. Opportunities to name a specific item is based on the timeliness of the rrequest equest and availability availability.. Please contact the rrectory ectory if you wish to explor exploree a naming orr memorial memo opportunity opportunity..
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Academic Excellence. Character. Self-confidence.
St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich 860-889-4174 www.stpatscathedralschool.org 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.saintjohnschoolos.com St. Joseph School, Baltic 860-822-6141 www.stjosephbaltic.org St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale 860-923-2090 www.schoolofstjoseph.com
Third Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner A Big Night for Catholic Education in the Diocese The Third Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner at Lake of Isles in North Stonington, By Michael Strammiello Executive Editor
October 28th, was a big night for Catholic education in the Diocese of Norwich. Hosted by the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich, the event brought together on one special night,
a coalition of diocesan school administrators, pastoral leadership, Board of Education members, teachers, alums, parents, friends of Catholic education and many of the students themselves who were there to provide music and, of course, inspiration. It is all about the students. Their education. Their character building. Their future. As Micheala Abate, the essay
winner and student at St. Joseph School in New London, expressed it, “Catholic education teaches us more than academics…it holds us to a higher standard of responsibility.” That higher standard was celebrated by all present, and supported in the form of fundraising contributions raised by the dinner to provide tuition assistance to deserving families.
Three recipients of the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. Award were honored for their many years of dedicated service to Catholic education. So honored were Sister Mary Bernard Rivest, S.C.M.C., Reverend Monsignor Henry N. Archambault, P.A., J.C.D. and Reverend Richard Archambault. For Sister Mary Bernard Continued on page 24
To learn more, contact the Diocesan School Office, 860-887-4086, www.norwichdso.org or contact one of the diocesan schools.
St. Joseph School, New London 860-442-1720 www.sjsnl.com St. Mary School, Middletown 860-347-2978 www.stmarymiddletown.com St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org St. Michael School, Pawcatuck 860-599-1084 www.stmichaelschoolct.com St. Matthew Pre-School, Tolland 860-872-0200 www.stmatthewct.org St. Bernard Pre-School, Rockville 860-875-0475 www.saintbernardchurch.org
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Seton Scholarship Dinner Continued from page 23 Rivest, a Sister of Charity of Our Lady Mother of the Church, her service as an educator began as a first grade teacher at St. Joseph School in Willimantic. As her career advanced, she became Princi-
pal of Sacred Heart School in Taftville, St. Mary St. Joseph School in Willimantic, Assumption Junior High and Principal of St. Patrick Cathedral School in Norwich for 22 years until her re-
Third Annual
SETON SCHOLARSHIP DINNER Thank you, to all who shared in the wonderful success of the Seton Scholarship Dinner. To all our sponsors, donors, attendees, student musicians and our honorees; thank you for making this an evening to remember and cherish! THE SETON SCHOLARSHIP DINNER COMMITTEE
tirement in 2007. She graciously accepted the recognition for her contributions to the welfare of so many students. In her comments, she made a point to give special thanks for all the support she has always received from Monsignor Rosaforte and Jo McIvor. Monsignor Henry N. Archambault was ordained to the priesthood on July 11, 1959 at St. Joseph Church in North Grosvenordale by Bishop Bernard J. Flanagan, first Bishop of Norwich. Monsignor has served the Diocese in many capacities including District Director of the Catholic Youth Organization, Secretary and later Vice-officialis of the Norwich Diocese Tribunal – having earned his doctoral degree in Canon Law. In addition to his many diocesan assignments and honors, Monsignor Archambault has been Pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Taftville for 31 years. For 20 of those years, he enjoyed a close collaboration with Mother David, Principal of Sacred Heart School. In his humble way and with his typical good humor, he accepted the award mentioning
that his “brother Richard deserved people in crisis across 11 parishes it more than he.” through Project Northeast, Father Reverend Richard Archambault has been a true and faithful serwas ordained to the priesthood in vant of the less fortunate. In ac1955 at St. Joseph Church in cepting his award, Father North Grosvenordale Archambault spoke of also by Bishop Flanahis work with those in gan. Following inicrisis as “…his calltial parish ing” -- thanking assignments at St. Bishop Cote for Mary in Putnam his unwavering and Sacred support of this Heart in community Taftville, Famission. ther completed A grateful auhis Master’s dience apDegree in eduplauded the cation at three excepBoston College. tional contribuIn 1965, Father tors to Catholic became Diocesan education in the Superintendent of Diocese and to the Schools. Father Arcommon good of chambault’s journey of their parishes and comservice to the Diocese Dr. John Shine munities. would lead to becomThe final award of ing Chaplain of the Daughters of the evening would go to Dr. John the Holy Spirit Provincialate. (Jack) Shine who received the There, he and Sister Eleanior Bal- Patrici-Anne Award for outstanddoni began what would become ing accomplishments in serving 43 years of continuous service pro- the Catholic schools of the Dioviding food, fuel and clothing to cese. Dr. Shine, Superintendent of Diocesan Schools since 2009, has just recently announced his retirement effective the end of this year. During his tenure, Dr. Shine has seen the school system through treacherous economic times. The system, under his watch, has been stabilized and positioned for continued success in the years to come. As Bishop Cote recognized in the Patrici-Anne proclamation, “The Church of Norwich salutes you for your outstanding accomplishments in serving our Catholic schools…In the fulfillment of your many duties, you have uplifted us with your strong faith in the Lord and your love for the Church…Our entire diocesan family will always cherish your dedicated and devoted labors among us.” An uplifting tribute to a distinguished and deserving educator. Mrs. Brissette’s 5th grade class at St. Michael School in PawIt was a night to recognize the catuck proudly wear jeans and the color pink as part of the talents and sacrifice of those who school’s annual participation in Lee National Denim Day. The watch over the diocesan schools. It students, faculty, and staff could make an optional donation was also an occasion to have a and wear pink to participate for Breast Cancer Awareness. The wonderful dinner together and be school raised $387.00, which will help the American Cancer ever mindful of the treasure the Society and its support of life saving screenings in communities schools are to the Diocese and esnationwide, care to those traveling for cancer treatment, and pecially to the students and their investments in cancer research. families.
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Fire, Snow & Wind: Faith That Withstands the Elements The men had just left morning Mass when they spotted the flames. It was the second MonBy Christina Capecchi Four County Catholic Contributor
day of November, and they’d been without electricity since Saturday. Torrential winds had toppled trees and power lines, so they’d been keeping warm with a big fire in their lounge. St. Malo Retreat Center was a threestory lodge owned by the Archdiocese of Denver and operated by five men from Sodalitium Christianae Vitae, a Vatican-recognized society of apostolic life made up mostly of consecrated laymen and some clergy. The retreat center was tucked behind the storybook Chapel on the Rock blessed by Pope John Paul II during his 1993 World Youth Day trip. It sat at the base of Mount Meeker, the second highest peak in Rocky Mountain National Park. St. Malo had served as a secular conference center up until 2003,
when Sodalitium members moved in and responded to a charge by Archbishop Chaput to restore its Catholic identity. Among them was José Ambrozic, 56, a Lima, Peru, native with brown eyes, a warm smile and a white beard who became director of the retreat center. Living at an elevation of 8,500
feet was a high point for his soul. José’s room was small, with basic furniture and a twin bed, but his view was expansive. The Liturgy of the Hours and Eucharistic Adoration anchored his days. He lived among Rocky Mountain wildlife: elk and black bears, hawks and hummingbirds. He rarely had to leave, driving the community’s green Nissan Pathfinder just four or five days a month. The long winters brought adventure: pick-up hockey on a nearby pond, moonlit snowshoeing with kids on retreat, early morning jogs along
Highway 7 when he’d see one or two cars in the span of an hour, the stars sparkling on crusty snow banks. It also brought the winter gales that knocked out power last November. Despite their vigilance, the fireplace the men had used to keep warm appeared to have ignited a section of the roof near the chimney. They called 9-1-1 and expected firefighters to promptly extinguish it, but crews were hampered by the height of the flames, the lack of water and the ferocity of the wind. The day pressed on, snow fell and eventually 15 fire companies showed up to battle the surging flames. José and his housemates could do nothing but watch and wait, shivering as they prayed rosaries. The south wing, including their rooms, was completely en-
gulfed. The damage was irreparable, and the building has been shut down indefinitely. José lost all his possessions in the fire: passports, letters, clothes, religious art, pictures of his parents’ wedding and his library of 4,000some books – paperbacks and hardbacks with highlighted texts and notes scrawled in the margins, bread crumbs from decades of spiritual and intellectual growth. “I think sometimes God wants us to travel lighter, to recognize that all we need we’ve got,” he told me. “Nothing happens outside of God’s plan for me, so my reaction was, ‘OK, what does this mean? What does God expect from us now?’”
The five men from St. Malo have dispersed. Some are back in Peru. José is helping at Holy Name Catholic Church in Denver and devoting more time to a doctorate in the philosophy of culture. One year later he can still close his eyes and conjure life at St. Malo, gazing up at Mount Meeker. “It was very, very quiet,” he said. Now José waits for the next chapter to unfold. “I’m realizing that we’re always in God’s hands, and God sometimes presents a challenge for the greater good.” Christina Capecchi is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, Minn. She can be reached at www.ReadChristina.com.
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Defining Characteristics of Catholic Schools Based on Standards, Leadership and Academic Excellence with a quality education based on these values. The National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Education, is the result of two years of collaboration among Catholic educators in the United States. It was created for schools to use as a framework for establishing and defining the identity of Catholic School excellence. The document is divided into two major sections: Defining Characteristics of Catholic Schools, and Standards and Benchmarks. The Standards give a very clear description of what should be present in a “mission driven, program effective, wellmanaged, and responsibly governed Catholic school that operates in concert with the defining characteristics.” There are 13 Standards and supporting benchmarks. Standard 1 has five benchmarks all clearly explaining the point that Catholic school excellence must be firmly centered on a clearly defined and well communicated mission statement adhered to by all mem-
By Sheila Cerjanec Technology Coordinator, Diocesan School Office
our children is not only the pursuit of academic excellence, but also a directive that shapes and forms the whole person; spiritually, morally, aesthetically, and physically, to ready them for the world in which they live today and to prepare them for years to come. As visitors enter the schools in the Diocese of Norwich, they will see the school’s mission statement visibly posted proclaiming the role of the educators to follow this directive. The wording may differ but the message is the same, to teach the children as Jesus would, to develop a relationship with Christ and to bear witness to the Gospel message to love God and others and to follow the Church’s teachings on social justice. Catholic schools are communities of faith building on the collaboration among parents, teachers, and staff to provide the students
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bers of the school’s constituency. The seven benchmarks found in Standard 2 speak to the necessity of excellence throughout the curriculum offered by the schools and that these programs of study should be rigorously academic and set in a foundation that integrates faith, culture and life experience. Standard 3 expresses the belief that students in Catholic schools need to be provided with opportunities, not only within the classrooms, but outside of them, to live the reality of service and participation in acts of social justice. Standard 4 follows and supports Standard 3 by encouraging parents, faculty, and staff to participate in this educational process, and to grow in their own faith life, while supporting and helping to develop this integral facet of the Catholic school community. Of course, none of this can take place without responsible and dedicated leadership within the schools. It is necessary, therefore, to assure that those governing Catholic schools lead in collaboration with those in authority within the diocese based on a strong working relationship marked by
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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.
~ VL ~
“trust, cooperation and dialogue.” It follows that in order for a Catholic school to implement these directives, the school must have a strong, and well organized leader or leadership team, capable of establishing, supporting and maintaining the vision. Standards 5 and 6 address these issues. Standards 7 , 8 and 9 elaborate the essential elements necessary to provide the framework for the “design, implementation and assessment of authentic academic excellence in Catholic school education from pre-kindergarten through secondary school.” To be considered “excellent”, a Catholic school must have a wellarticulated, and highly rigorous curriculum that is in tune with today’s skills and aligned with Gospel Values . (Standard 7) Standard 8 speaks to the use of school-wide assessment methods to document student progress, and to monitor, review and evaluate curricular and co-curricular programs to ensure that this excellence is being sustained. Standard 9 stresses the need for the creation of curricular and co-curricular activities that provide opportunities both within the schools and outside of them, for students to develop their creative, aesthetic, social/emotional, physical and spiritual abilities beyond the boundaries of classroom learning. The final five standards deal with the operational vitality of Catholic schools. It is a reality, that if a school cannot maintain operational vitality, it is in danger of losing the ability to provide academic excellence. Therefore, it is neces-
sary to create a strong “operational” foundation within each Catholic school. The document identifies this foundation as having four key areas: “finances, human resources/personnel, facilities and institutional advancement.” As stated in Standard 10, “an excellent Catholic school provides a feasible three to five year financial plan “. This plan must contain present and future plans and budgets and must be developed with an eye to future needs and assessments. Standard 11 stresses the need for Catholic schools to assure that their human resources policies clearly define standards for positions within the schools. Technology figures heavily in Standard 12, as it is at the root of today’s and tomorrow’s educational planning. Catholic schools must be prepared, in keeping with the school’s mission, to provide the best management plan possible to deliver the school’s educational programs. The final standard, Standard 13, suggests that each school enact a “comprehensive plan for institutional advancement “, assuring that it will be able to grow and survive for years to come. These Standards and Benchmarks provide a useful guide for schools to ensure that they are staying in line with the pastoral mission of the Church and that they are truly “ecclesial entities where faith, culture and life are brought into harmony….where the environment expresses the signs of Catholic culture, physically and visibly,” …and first and foremost is defined by excellence.
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The profound purpose of Catholic education is deeply rooted in the belief that educating
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Did You Know? November 11 Veteran’s Day, Pray for our military and their families. Remember we can be Christian soldiers for Jesus as it says in 2 Timothy 2:3. November 15 America Recycles Day. Recycle old toys and clothes. November 22 Thanksgiving Day. Read about a thanksgiving day in Nehemiah 12:27, 43.
by Karen H Whiting
November 23 National Day of Listening, take time to really listen to one another. Pray and listen for God to answer. Read John 10:27 to discover something Jesus said about listening.
Giving Thanks
December 2 Advent begins and it’s also the Church’s New Year’s Day. Start to prepare for Christmas!
Psalm 136 and several other places of the Bible use a phrase for why we should thank God. Decode this puzzle to find the phrase. Solve the math and then find the letter that matches the solution.
Celebrate Christ the King Day H= 1 S = 2
Celebrate with some of these activities: • Make paper or craft foam crowns with a cross on the top. • Hold a parade to honor the king. Parade around a crown or hold a crown up on a pole and sing or play Christian music. • Play ‘follow the leader’ to remember the leader to always follow is Jesus. • Do some extra chores to earn money to give to the king. Put it in the offering at church. • Decorate cupcakes as crowns. Use gumdrops on cupcakes for the points on the crown. Or cut paper crowns to put around the cupcakes. • Play a hide and seek game with a paper crown. Then chat about how we should not hide our faith or forget to have Jesus be part of our daily life. • Kneel or bow to pray to Jesus the King. Thanks him for all you have and for dying so you can live in heaven. • Make hero subs and chat about how Jesus is your hero.
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O = 3 L = 4
V = 5 N = 6
______ ______ ______ 9-8 2x5 8/4
F = 7 R = 8
U = 9 I = 10
E = 11 D = 12
______ ______ ______ ______ 6-2 9/3 2+3 6+5
______ 8+3
______ 2x3
______ 3x4
______ 3x3
______ 16/2
______ 7+4
______ 6/3
______ 3+4
______ 6/2
______ 5+3
______ 4+7
______ 1+4
______ 2+9
______ 4x2
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Answer: His love endures forever
Sunday, November 25th is the feast of Christ the King. Pope Pius XI started this day to remind people that Jesus is our leader and to remember faith is to be part of our lives every day. We just held elections for the leader of our country. Our leader changes but Jesus will always be our king and heavenly leader.
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Catholic Prayer Fills the Crystal Cathedral Archbishop Timothy Dolan has called the Crystal Cathedral “a blessing, not only to the Diocese By Kathy Schiffer
of Orange, but to the entire Church in the United States, and an effective boost to the New
Evangelization in our country.” His high praise for what will become America’s newest Catholic cathedral came in a letter to Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States. November 3, 2012 was the first day that Catholic prayer filled the
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space, as the Magnificat Foundation—in conjunction with the Diocese of Orange—celebrated the Day of Faith, the first major Catholic event in the Crystal Cathedral, the future Christ Cathedral. Moving between the computer and the television set, I watched this day-long get-together of the faithful which included liturgical prayer, outstanding presentations by leading Catholic thinkers, magnificent renderings of sacred music, and much more. One speaker whose message was compelling was Mrs. Clara Gaymard, President and CEO of GE France and vice president of government strategy and sales at GE International. Mrs. Gaymard is an effective business leader, and a devoted wife and mother. She is also the daughter of renowned geneticist Dr. Jerome Lejeune, close friend of Pope John Paul II. Dr. Lejeune’s scientific research led to the discovery of the cause of Down Syndrome. He served as the first
president of the Pontifical Academy for Life; and his cause for beatification was opened in 2007. I was impressed by what the organizers accomplished with this Day of Prayer. Catholics who have expressed concern over whether this space, long the home of Dr. Robert
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Schuller’s famed “Hour of Power” broadcast, could accommodate Catholic worship, saw how easily the Cathedral accommodated the grand music: classical, familiar hymns, Gregorian chant. And while there will be no Mass at the Cathedral until its dedication, the faithful assembled joined in praying the Liturgy of the Hours, the first “official” Catholic prayer to be recited there. And while major renovations are still being planned (the sellers have the right, by contract, to use the space for another three years), there were beautiful Catholic touches: candles, vestments, the larger-than-life painting of Christ on the Cross, and the oversized stained glass windows which hung in front of the building’s well-known glass walls. Protestants who may have felt uneasy at relinquishing their cherished home to papists must have felt at home hearing some of their own hymns; and the Catholic presenters gently, faithfully explained Catholic teaching: “Some people wonder why Catholics pray to saints; but the Scriptures say….” The speakers cited some of the best Catholic minds in history: St. Augustine, who would be a familiar voice in Lutheranism, and St. Thomas Aquinas. Throughout the day, I heard no criticism of Protestantism, no “Us/Them” dichotomy, yet no relinquishing of the treasure of the Catholic Faith. It was a grand celebration befitting such a grand edifice.
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Four County Catholic November 2012
Whit White e on WHITE Churches Churches of Ru Rural New England through January 27, 2013 Architectural photographer Steve Rosenthal has ha been documenting iconic whitewashed meetinghouses for forty years. His images draw attention to the quiet beauty of these vernacular buildings, encouraging their preservation. The works on view include new photographs of southern Connecticut churches created especially for the Florence Griswold Museum.
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Four County Catholic November 2012
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Liberty
Defending Religious Liberty In this Thanksgiving season, let us give thanks for our Godgiven rights and stand strong in our opposition of the encroachments being made on our religious freedom. After the election, we con-
tinue to stand in defense of life, marriage, and our first, and most cherished liberty, the freedom of religion. We will continue to do all that we can to ensure that we are able to live our faith. The United States Conference
of Catholic Bishops continues to urge the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the White House in the strongest possible terms, to eliminate the various infringements on religious freedom imposed by
the mandate. I assure you all that we are watching this situation very closely, including the many lawsuits taking place throughout the country in this regard and will continue to investigate ways we can fight this
infringement. If you haven’t expressed your opposition to the federal healthcare mandate, please contact the White House at: www.whitehouse.gov/ contact or call: 202456-1111 or 202-456-1414.
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