RELIGIOUS FREEDOM WEEK JUNE 22-29 Diocese of Norwich Office of the Bishop 201 Broadway Norwich, Connecticut 06360 (860) 887-9294

FOUR COUNTY

Volume 33 • NumberCATHO 6 • JUNE/JULY 2021 • SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLANDLIC • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY

Preserving America’s First Freedom

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, June 2021 As you are already aware, our diocese and many dioceses around the country are facing declining numbers of both priests and parishioners. Consequently, we must continue to plan for the future as best we can, based on the projected number of priests available to minister, as well as the number of people in our parishes. The Diocese of Norwich began the process several years ago with the clustering of parishes, and then the yoking of parishes, as well as some mergers in which one parish closed. Most recently, we have adopted the more moderate approach of merging parishes, but without closing church buildings. The result of such mergers is that one parish has two or more worship sites. By merging two or more parishes into one parish with multiple worship sites, we simplify the many administrative tasks involved in parish life, allow the parish to maximize its resources, and minimize, we hope, the disruption of parishioners’ regular schedule of religious practice.

This year in the Diocese of Norwich, the following parishes will be merged in accord with this process.

1. St. John the Evangelist, Uncasville with Our Lady of the Lakes, Oakdale and Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Quaker Hill. The newly merged parish will be Divine Mercy Parish, Uncasville. 2. St. Joseph, New London with St. Mary, New London and St. Paul, Waterford. The newly merged parish will be St. Brendan the Navigator Parish, New London and will remain yoked with Our Lady of Grace, Fishers Island, NY. 3. St. Bridget, Moodus with St. Patrick, East Hampton. The newly merged parish will be St. John Paul II Parish, East Hampton. 4. St. Columba, Columbia with Holy Family, Hebron The newly merged parish will be The Good Shepherd Parish, Columbia. On the Cover 5. St. Andrew, Colchester and St. Francis of Assisi, Lebanon Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin The newly merged parish will be Guardian Angels Parish, Colchester. This month we dedicate our paper to the Mother of God. These mergers will become effective on Thursday, July 1, 2021. There are many images of Mary throughout the world. Few are more beautiful than this closeup view of Mary as Through this measured approach to the restructuring in our diocese, we hope to be sensitive to the deep feelings of attachment our people have to their parishes. As our diocese depicted in the north transept stained glass window at the continues to move forward in pastoral planning, let us join together in prayer and in action, working toward our goal of vital, vibrant parishes. May we always remember to pray Cathedral of Saint Patrick in Norwich. for each other as we journey together into a future bright with promise and filled with an abundance of God’s grace. Include picture of cover here like we used to have. Sincerely yours in Christ, If Room is needed, eliminate the Page 9 quote above NorwichDiocese.org

Bishop of Norwich

ON THE COVER Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 17. Changes to the We Can Help Podemos ayudar distribution of ashes are being made this year to ensure the safety of the clergy and faithful. See page 6 for the details. To report inappropriate conduct of any kind by a Diocesan Bishop Para reportar una conducta inapropiada de cualquier tipo por parte de un obispo please contact ReportBishopAbuse.org or call 1-800-276-1562 diocesano, por favor contacte ReportBishopAbuse.org o llame al 1-800-276-1562 To report inappropriate contact of any kind by a representative of the Para reportar contacto inapropiado de cualquier tipo por medio de un representante Diocese of Norwich or for assistance for victims, please call: The Diocesan de la Diócesis de Norwich o para asistencia a víctimas, por favor llame a La Línea de Reporting Line @ 1-800-624-7407 Reportaje de la Diócesis de Norwich 1-800-624-7407 If the incident involves a minor Incidents involving abuse of Incidents involving abuse of Si el incidente involucra a un Incidentes relacionados con el Incidentes relacionados con el (persons under the age of 18), vulnerable adults aged 18-59 vulnerable adults aged 60 and menor (personas menores de abuso de adultos vulnerables abuso de adultos vulnerables 18 años), también debe llamar de 18-59 años de edad deben de 60 años de edad o más deben | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | CATHOLIC 2021 | FOUR COUNTY JUNE/JULY you must also call: should be reported to: over should be reported to: State of CT Department of Connecticut Department of Connecticut Department a Departamento de Niños y ser reportados a Departamento ser reportados a Departamento Children and Families Care Developmental Services - AID of Social Services for the Familias de CT de Servicios al Desarrollo del de Servicios Sociales Para Line 1-800-842-2288 -OR Division for Persons with Intel- Elderly 1-800-842-2288 -O-Servicios Estado de Connecticut-División Ancianos de Connecticut –State of NY Child Protective lectual Disabilities 1-888-385-4225 de Protección de Niños del de Ayuda para Personas con 1-888-385-4225. Services 1-800-635-1522 1-844-878-8923 Estado de NY Incapacidad Intelectual 1-800-635-1522. 1-844-878-8923. 2 workers forour cornerofthevineyard. with Fr. Jonathan ashegoesabout gathering Priestley Vocations. Ilookforwardtoworking recently appointed him as the new Director of he ministers to asFr. JonathanFicara, I have parishioners andthemany college students that spoke was JonathanFicara.Better known nowtohis Fr.Galvin that with after becoming vocation director in 2007 man young first The is Godaskingofyou?” as priestsbeganwithasimplequestion-“What service tothemanyyoungmenwhosevocations in thisrolefor14years.Iamgratefulhis Fr. Greghasservedmeandthediocesewell outgoing DirectorofPriestlyvocations. Fr.not theleastofwhichwas GregoryGalvin, journey of discernment by many individuals, transitional diaconate. Jacob wasguidedinhis exceptional young man, Jacob Ramos,tothe May 27th I hadthe pleasure of ordaining an We haveanotherreasontocelebrate. On they haveseeninayear. that the attendance on Pentecost was the largest is behindus.Manypastorshaveinformed me We live inhopethattheworstofhealthcrisis called together in community for SundayMass. Now isthetime to celebrate! We onceagain are into theworld. the HolySpiritatPentecost,boldlyventureout with filled disciples the like we, as lives, our in appropriate than nowaswefacethisnextchapter “we liveinhope.”Hiswordswerenevermore He believed that through the strength offaith ago wassuddenlycalled from usto eternal rest. Monsignor Brown,whoonlyafewshortyears Recently I wasthinking of my dear friend, My dearbrothers andsistersinChrist, MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D. THE MOSTREVEREND United inHope LET FAITHLEADTHEWAY 22 - June 29. Catholics across the UnitedStates 22 -June29. Catholicsacross organized Religious Freedom Week fromJune of theUnitedStateshaveonceagain we bishops As theworldremains troubled and unsettled, God’s love. assures usofthefreedom toserveothersin brothers and sisters. the The First Amendment immigrant, the defenseless unbornandourmostvulnerable infirmed, the orphaned, those seeking education and the truth, the ministries open to assist the poor, the hungry, With your supportwewere able to keep our conscience. important exercise ofthefreedom of thought and Keeping ourchurchesandschoolsopenwasan vigilant. us thatwemustremain This lastyearhasshown first right. complacent about preservinganddefendingthis be to afford cannot freedom. We first country’s as perone’s conscience, is consideredour believe and practice one’s religion or noreligion to theConstitution, providing the freedom to religious freedom for all. The First Amendment of theU.S.Constitution, we areendowedwith By naturalrightfromGodandbyprotection and thriveasanationunderGod. the freedom andopportunity to practice our faith We areblessedtoliveinaCountryoffering us Confirmation. Initiation, will besealedwiththeHolySpiritin of Sacrament final the in who, women and men enthusiasm as seen in the faces ofthose young Spirit atPentecost. This isa season burstingwith of theEasterSeasonandgiftsHoly promise as weembrace the continuing joy June issuchanexhilarating time of hopeand BISHOP OFNORWICH e t o C Bishop ofNorwich . R l e a h c i M United inhope. blessed land. for ourselvesandallthosewholiveinthis grace maywehavethecouragetodefendthem, to protect and promote our liberties. By your common good. Granttoourleaders the wisdom the foundation of human rights, justice, and the and blessyouforthegiftofreligiousliberty, Almighty God,Fatherofallnations,wepraise how importantthiscauseistoeachofyou. Be sure to let your elected representatives know first freedomiscritical. against. Everyinstance of endangerment to our the infringements wemustrecognizeanddefend It isaspecialandtimelyopportunitytolearnof website andFacebookpage. guide willbeposteddailyonthediocesan areas of religious freedom. A brief one-page specific on act and pray, reflect, to asked being Each dayofReligiousFreedom Week we are “Solidarity inFreedom.” this weekofintensefocusonreligiousliberty is religious liberty. The very appropriate theme for are encouraged to prayandact in supportof Sincerely yoursinChrist, 3 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 4 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org que sirve.Recientementelo henombradonuevo por losmuchosestudiantes universitariosalos como PadreJonathanFicara porsusfeligresesy en 2007fueJonathanFicara. Mejorconocido después de convertirse en Director de Vocaciones El primerjovenconquienPadreGalvinhabló simple pregunta:“¿QuétepideDios?” vocaciones comosacerdotescomenzaronconuna por suservicioalosmuchosjóvenescuyas agradecido Estoy 14 años. durante oficio este en Padre Gregmehaservidoamíyladiócesisbien Vocaciones Sacerdotales,PadreGregoryGalvin. personas, especialmenteporelanteriorDirectorde guiado ensucaminodediscernimientopormuchas a unjovenexcepcional,JacobRamos.fue tuve elplacerdeordenaraldiaconadotransición Tenemos otromotivoparacelebrar, el27demayo año. Pentecostés fue la más grande que han visto en un párrocos mehaninformadoquelaasistenciaa Muchos atrás. quedύ salud de crisis la de peor lo misa dominical. Vivimos conlaesperanzadeque somos convocados juntos en comunidad para la ¡Ahora eselmomentodecelebrar!Unavezmás el mundoconvalentía. Espíritu SantoenPentecostés,nosaventuramos vidas, quealiguallosdiscípulosllenosdel enfrentamos estepróximocapítuloennuestras nunca fueronmásapropiadasqueahora de lafe“vivimosconesperanza.”Suspalabras descanso eterno, Él creía que a través de la fuerza pocos añosatrás fue repentinamente llamado al amigo, MonseñorBrown,quienhacesolounos Recientemente, estuve pensando en mi querido Cristo, Mis queridoshermanosyhermanasen Unidos enlaEsperanza MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D. THE MOSTREVEREND LET FAITHLEADTHEWAY nosotros losobisposdeEstados Unidoshemos Mientras el mundo sigue atribulado e inestable, libertad deserviralosdemás enelamordeDios. vulnerables. LaPrimeraEnmienda nosasegurala nacidos y anuestroshermanos y hermanas más enfermos, alosinmigrantes,indefensosno ayudar alospobres,que pasan hambre,alos mantener abiertosnuestrosministeriospara pensamiento yconciencia.Consuapoyopudimos fue unejercicioimportantedelalibertad Mantener abiertasnuestrasiglesiasyescuelas permanecer alerta. debemos que demostrado ha nos año ύltimo Este preservación ydefensadeesteprimerderecho. permitirnos ellujodesercomplacientesenla la primeralibertaddenuestropaís.Nopodemos religión segúnlaconcienciadeuno,esconsiderada de creerypracticarlareligiónpropiaoninguna Enmienda delaConstitución,nosotorga lalibertad la ConstitucióndelosEstadosUnidos.LaPrimera por derecho natural de Dios y por la protección de Estamos dotadosdelibertadreligiosaparatodos, fe yprosperarcomonaciónbajoDios. ofrece libertadylaoportunidaddepracticarnuestra Tenemos labendicióndevivirenunpaísquenos Santo enlaConfirmación. Espíritu el con sellados serán Iniciación, de final hombres ymujeresjóvenesque,enelSacramento entusiasmo comoseveenlosrostrosdeaquellos en Pentecostés. Esta esunatemporadallenade temporada dePascuaylosdonesdelEspírituSanto y promesaaladoptarelgozocontinuodela Junio esunmomentotanestimulantedeesperanza trabajadores paralaviña. trabajar conPadreJonathanmientrasvareclutando Director de Vocaciones Sacerdotales.Espero BISHOP OFNORWICH Obispo deNorwich Cote R. Michael Sinceramente enelamordeCristo, Unidos enlaEsperanza, que vivenenestatierrabendita. defenderlos, paranosotrosmismosytodoslos libertades. Queportugraciatengamoselvalorde la sabiduríaparaprotegerypromovernuestras justicia yelbiencomún.Otorga anuestros líderes religiosa, fundamentodelosderechoshumanos, te alabamosybendecimosporeldondelalibertad Dios Todopoderoso, Padre de todas las naciones, uno deustedes. electos loimportantequeesestacausaparacada Asegúrense, deinformarasusrepresentantes crítica. instancia de peligro a nuestra primera libertad es y contralasquedebemosdefendernos.Cada conocer las infracciones que debemos reconocer Es unaoportunidadespecialyoportunapara la páginadeFacebook. unabreve guía deunapáginaenelsitiowebdiocesanoy enáreas se publicará yactuar Diariamente específicas. orar reflexionar, pide nos se Cada diadelaSemanaLibertadReligiosa libertad religiosaes“SolaridadenLibertad.” apropiado paraestasemanadeenfoqueintenso en apoyoalalibertadreligiosa.Eltemamuy católicos delosEstadosUnidosaoraryactuar Religiosa del22al29dejunio,Seanimaalos organizado unavezmáslaSemanadeLibertad

Deacon JacobRamos Ruben GarciaSanchez Mount SaintMarySeminary Deacon LarryBarile Mount SaintMarySeminary Mount SaintMarySeminary Dharen Brochero Pope JohnXXIIISeminary Emmitsburg, MD Emmitsburg, MD Emmitsburg, MD 3rd Theology 2nd Theology 2nd Theology 4th Theology Weston, MA Thank youtothestaff attheChancerywhoserveas not havearegularincomewhileinformation. worry aboutbecausetheyarenotworkingajobanddo cover someofthepersonalcoststhatseminarians Card forseminariansatChristmas. The cardshelp who allowedandsupportedourannual Advent Gift formation intheseminary. And thanks toallthepriests paying foratleastoneortwoseminarians’ yearsof Education FundCollectioneachMay. Itassists in diocese whohavesupportedourannualSeminarian Thank youtothosefrommanyparishesaroundthe Hour andourordinationMasses. you whohaveattendedourtravelingmonthlyHoly priests, aswell as forreligiousvocations. Thanks to years haveprayedpersonallyforourseminariansand Thanks tosomanyaroundthediocesewhoover priesthood tospeakwithme. assignment; andencouragingmenconsideringthe hosting aseminarianatyourparishduringsummer encouragement toalwaysbeingwillingassistwith and yoursupportinsomanydifferent ways-from Thank youalsotomybrotherpriestsforyourtrust confidence thatyouinstilledinme. your manyyearsofsupport,encouragementandthe I say thank you Bishop Cote for your trust in me, Now, almost14yearslater, humbledbytheopportunity, life asapriest. always needtocontinuesay‘yes’ throughoutmy my vowofobedience,Iknewatthattimewould did notwanttogiveitanymorethought. When Itook that thiswasthenextwayofservingdioceseand I toldtheBishopthatwouldbeverywillingtoaccept which wasmorethanverykindoftheBishop. it, thinkaboutandgetbacktohimwithmydecision, come backtome.Heoffered meachancetoconsider and saidthatthroughouttheprocess,hecontinuedto for theDioceseofNorwich.Helookedmeineye he wantedtobecomethenextDirectorof Vocations Chancery andsaidhehad given muchthoughtto who Back inJulyof2007,BishopCotemetwithmethe Vocations Corner Holy Hour JUNE 17th6-7pm–CathedralofSt.Patrick,Norwich AUGUST 19 The MostReverend Michael R.Cote,D.D., Bishop ofNorwich, leadstheHoly Hour JULY 15 Fr. GregGalvin Sincerely inChrist, Christ bewithyouall. all yourefforts. wonderful partofGod’s immensefamily. Godbless prayers and support and those of everyone in this God andyour‘yes’ toBishopCote. You havemy Father Jonathan,thankyouforyoursecond‘yes’ to to serveinthispartofHisvastvineyard. bring totheNorwichDiocesemenGodiscalling Please supporthim,asyoudidme,hecontinuesto get better. Hewillbeagreat Vocations Director. priesthood. He is a fine priest and will only continue to through the complete journey of formation to the director. He was the first in my 14 years who I assisted was the first young man I spoke with as a new vocation him andkeepinyourprayers.FatherJonathan encourage Father, for pray to you of all ask I office. appointing Fr. JonathanFicaratotakeonthevocation Now withagratefulheartIthankBishopCoteagainfor diocese. a partinhelpingbringwonderfulpriestlymentoour for yourunderstandingandpatience. You haveallhad time Ihavealsobeendirectorofvocations,thankyou To allthoseIhaveservedinparishworkduringthe Absolutely. to this call to priesthood. Is it easy? No. Is it fulfilling? to laydowntheirlivesfortheChurchbyresponding There truly continues tobeagreatneed for menwilling assisting amancalledbyGodtobeoneofHispriests. role andextremelyhumblingtohaveasmallpartin It hasbeenatrue honor toserveourdioceseinthis patience. and kindness with comes always that service selfless easier. They rarelygetthefullrecognitionfortheir secretaries tomultiplepriests,formakingourlives TH God-Calls.com TH –6pm-St.Mary, Norwich –6pmSt.Peter, Higganum MONTHLY for Vocations

Alexander Pandolfe Mount SaintMarySeminary Mount SaintMarySeminary Mount SaintMarySeminary Mount SaintMarySeminary Mark Johnson Julian Cuervo Eric Hosmer Emmitsburg, MD 2nd Pre-Theology Emmitsburg, MD Emmitsburg, MD Emmitsburg, MD 1st Theology 1st Theology 1st Theology

5 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 6 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org E some of the benefit of your years your of benefit the of some Diocesan entity will receive that at a later date, your chosen that you canact today toensure giving. There are so many ways profound impactonyourfuture Taking steps now, canhave years inthefuture. set uptodaytotakeeffect many and includesgiftsthatyoumay takes alonger-term perspective to thoseinneed.Legacy giving spiritual and educational support that provideimmediate physical, many otherdiocesanministries Paul, Middletown, as wellour Norwich, andSt. Vincent de our St. Vincent dePaul Place, parishioners havesupported Catholic Appeal, the Annual to their current needs.Bydonating neighbors with our friendsand been concernedwithhelping past year, somany of ushave and planned gifts. During this giving throughestateplanning of benefits and importance the parishioners arereminded of month. Through this initiative By MaryEllenMahoney 433 Main Street, Danielson, CT as “LeaveaLegacy” Norwich proclaims June ach year, theDioceseof Independently OwnedandOperatedSince 1881 860-774-3284 Owner/Funeral Director Steve Bennardo June isLegacyMonth 25 Main Street, Central Village, CT her church. The first one bears one first The church. her Foundation, bothsupporting endowments withintheCatholic In fact,Barbaraestablished two Lady of Lourdesinto the future.” for metosustainmychurch,Our Norwich, wouldbethebestway Foundation oftheDiocese endowment within the Catholic felt that“creatingapermanent church, Barbara remarked she about herdesiretohelp Family, Country”. In thinking up, herfamily motto was“God, the Navy NurseCorps.Growing life caring for others as anursein Lourdes, GalesFerry, spenther a parishioner ofOurLady of to mind.Barbara Ann Hvizdo, share afewrecentonesthat come throughout our diocese, I will of planned gifts being made While therearemanyexamples your Will isanothereasyoption. adding asimplecodicil amending have already written your Will, your schoolto Will. Ifyou or Catholic Appeal, the Annual account, or addingyourchurch, insurance policy or retirement as changing a beneficiary of a life of hard work. It can be as simple 860-564-2147 Planeta, Sr. After the deaths of created byher husband,Edward through acharitable gift annuity of Audrey Dougherty Planeta, $107,000 to honor the memory legacy giving was agift of over A final, very touching example of forever. Cathedral and St.PatrickSchool about continuing to supportthe in her family name. She cared the creationofanendowment carried through in her Will with love ofherchurchandschool not surprisingthen that Sheila’s St. Pat’s Schoolverymuch.”Itis loved the Cathedral as well as was extremely generousand would be happy to provide. She whatever thechurchneeded,she kindest ladyyoucouldevermeet, commented that “Sheila wasthe The Cathedral of St. Patrick, Anthony Rosaforte,Rectorof of Sheila’s bequest, Monsignor Patrick School. Uponlearning benefit both theCathedralaswellSt. to used be to $133,000 bequest that amounted to nearly Endowment witha Family Fund established the EdwardG.Moran Through her Will, Sheila of The Cathedral of St.Patrick. Moran, alifelongparishioner by wayofthe Will ofSheila came totheCatholic Foundation A secondlegacy gift recently oversight andencouragement. and catechismwithhermom’s table working onherhomework with her mother at the kitchen in Bridgeport and spendingtime memories are ofherchildhood Endowment. Barbara’s fondest Joseph J.andFrances A. Hvizdo named after her parents, titled the her name and the second one is so muchand GodBless! before making anydecisions. Thank you advisor financial/tax wishes with your family and it is best to fully discuss your always, norwichdiocese.net. As or byemail atmemahoney@ Development at 860-886-1928 of Office the at Mahoney Ellen the future, please contact Mary diocesan organization well into helping tosupportyourfavorite would like more information on designations accordingly. Ifyou beneficiary or Wills our adjust to makeplannedgiftsandperhaps the future,weall have theability to makesuchlarge giftsnoworin While not all of usare in a position support theschool.” the Sacred Heart endowment to with adonation inhermemory to Audrey honor to therefore fitting education provides. Itwasonly the opportunitiesthataquality families have been blessed with to our blendedfamilies. Our have alwaysbeenimportant Education and theCatholic faith married at Sacred Heart Church. “My father and Audrey were his dadandsiblingsshared, Planeta, speaking on behalf of recipient of this gift. Michael Foundation wouldbetheperfect Endowment withintheCatholic Sacred Heart Church Education education, the family felt that the Church andhadastronglovefor members of Sacred Heart her family had beenlongtime 12 children.Since Audrey and with their blended family of 35 wonderfulyearstogether Edward met, married, and spent both theirspouses, Audrey and Building HopeInHaiti H education. by Mezalus Emil, our director of reflection recent a in noted as hope, face other tribulations but keeptheir Unlike the United States, Haitians carried intothecurrentone. that began inthelastschoolyearand challenges because of thepandemic Haitian schools face many schools. Like the United States, secondary and post-secondary young peopletoattendprimary, scholarships toapproximately 200 help ustoprovide and donors of education. Each yearfriends Hope isgiventhroughthegift the importance ofandneedforhope. through us, Haitians have taught us faith and let God’s great love shine and servicesallowustoshareour than wegive. While ourprograms discovered thatwereceive more during tryingtimes. We have endured andthehopethatshines and haswitnessedthetribulations and sistersinHaiti for fourdecades steadfastly walked with our brothers Our ministry, Outreach to Haiti, has visit becomesalifetimejourney. first their that discover amazement, will be aone-time trip and, totheir people visitHaiti thinking this a wondrous gift of Hope. Many people havegreatfaith in Godand to visit Haiti, you know the Haitian If youhavebeenfortunateenough Hemisphere. populated country in the Western is the poorest and most densely- occupies the restofisland.Haiti neighbor, theDominican Republic, By Susan WallaceBy “For Iknowtheplanshaveforyou,saysLORD, island of Hispaniola. Its occupies one-thirdofthe aiti is asmall country that welfare andnotforevil,togiveyouafuturehope.” Building HopeInHaiti well. All gloryistoGod.” employees havebeenprotected as It isablessingfromGod. All the They havealreadybeenprotected. victims becauseofinsecurity. or theirparentshaveever been until now, none of ourstudents students startedgoingtoschool is that“fromNovemberwhenour He went on tosayhowthankful he they continue to earngoodgrades.” kidnappings, andCovid-19; studies despite the political situation, “Students arecontinuingwiththeir doctors treatthem. are inneedofmedical care, our us tohelp. When familymembers their loved ones,they can count on parents areindireneedof foodfor knows shecancome to us. When her severelymalnourishedbaby, she seeks nutritional supplements for Healthcare Services. When amother Program, and Community Outreach Food andNutritional Supplements give hopethroughourMedicalClinic, much- through carefood: Wemedical and needed given is Hope need to supporttheir families. women with shared is Hope 800-3603. Outreachtohaiti.org orcall us at860- about ourwork,pleasevisit usat If youwouldlike to learnmore hope.” for evil, to giveyouafutureand LORD, plansforwelfare and not the plansIhaveforyou,says our journeyinlife, Jeremiah (29:11) aswecontinue All ofuswoulddowelltoheed keep hope. friends tomove forward andalways are learning through our Haitian been affected bythepandemic,we as ourselves.” While allofushave are learningto“Loveourneighbors sending peopletohelpthem. We Haitians know Godlovesthem by There arelessonshereforallofus. serve another40years. signals ourintent,Godwilling,to 2010 earthquake. This new building and replaces the one destroyed in the story buildingthatisnearcompletion evident is Hope and Haiti. other dioceses in the United States expanded to include parishes in foundation offaithandhope These relationships arebuiltona relationships with parishes in Haiti. parishes inourdiocese that foster Program our Twinning through multiplied is Hope entrepreneurial businesses. and establish their own micro- inner their strengths, learnbusinessbasics identify confidence, help them to develop their self- Jeremiah 29:11 in ournewthree- established by “For Iknow

who We We 7 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 8 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org Diocese to Recognize to Recognize Diocese Anniversary Couples Anniversary S on thewebsite. included inagallery ofpictures format ofthemselves tobe e-mail adigitalphotoinjpeg newspaper. Couplesmayalso County Catholic,ourdiocesan website andincludedin The Four Page ontheDioceseofNorwich listed onaspecial Anniversary anniversary dateswillalso be names ofallregistrants andtheir certificate fromthebishop. The the Masswillreceive asigned Each coupleregistering for The Masswillbegin at2p.m. enduring love ofmarriedcouples. year’s Mass,whichwillhonorthe will bethemaincelebrantforthis Norwich. BishopMichaelCote the Cathedral of Saint Patrick in Wedding Anniversary Massat By Mary-Jo McLaughlin Silver andGolden date setfortheannual unday, October 3isthe e odn CT New London, 12 Ocean Avenue12 e odn CT New London, 12 Ocean Avenue12 e odn CT New London, 12 Ocean Avenue12 443-1871 443-1871 443-1871 New London, CT 12 Ocean Avenue FUNERAL HOMES www.neilanfuneralhome.com FUNERAL HOMES www.neilanfuneralhome.com FUNERAL HOMES www.neilanfuneralhome.com 443-1871 attend inperson. those coupleswhoarenotableto over theDiocesanwebsitefor The Masswillbelive streamed September 10,2021. The registration deadlineis 2237, Ext312. net orbytelephoneat860-848- at mmclaughlin@norwichdiocese. Broadway, Norwich, CT 06360 or Services Coordinator, 199 Jo McLaughlin,CatholicFamily celebrated andparishto:Mary- wedding date,anniversary being name, address,telephonenumber, information: husband and wife’s register bysendingthe following recognized byBishopCote,please like toattendtheMassandbe anniversary thisyearand would If youarecelebratingasignificant 48 Grand Street Niantic, CT 48 Grand Street 48 Grand Street 739-6112 ini,CT Niantic, 48 Grand Street ini,CT Niantic, 739-6112 739-6112 ini,CT Niantic, 739-6112 minds, andtheirfamily’sat easeeachandeveryday. or assistedliving,wehavetheknowledgeable staffandrecordofintegritythatputstheir safe. Whentheysleepatnight canresteasywith24/7security. Whetherindependent it all.Whentheywanttosocialize, we’llgivetheminterestingoptionswhilekeeping From hangingtheirfavoritepicturesonthewalltoweeklyhousekeeping,wetakecareof under ourbelts,residentsknowtheycansitbackandrelax–we’re hereforthem. Peace ofmind.AtCreamery Brook,weknowthere’snothingelselikeit.Withover20 years Creamery Brook Differenceforyourself. personal tourtoexperiencethe information ortoschedulea Call 860-779-8700todayformore Difference The Creamery Brook Experience www.piercecare.org 36 Vina Lane, CT Brooklyn, I By Mary-Jo McLaughlin – along,unspoken subjectbetween me aboutthe deathofhisfirstwife husband sharedhisfeelings with Sunday morning listening as my done inalongtime.Iremember one another, somethingwe hadn’t up andsharingdeepfeelings with in ourrelationship. We wereopening A wonderful thingbegan tohappen night. Iwas wrong. morning aswewerethatFriday would bethesamecoupleMonday home forthetwo ofusandthatwe would justbeanicetimeaway from At first,Ithoughttheweekend registered us. basketball games thatweekend, he as therewerenoUCONNHusky scheduled forthenext month,and to Googleit.Hefoundaweekend hearing mesaythat,but decided he tellsthestory, henever recalled a MarriageEncounterweekend.” As him, “She’s always wanted togoon I mightlike forapresent.Shetold asked ouryoungestdaughterwhat For my50thbirthday, myhusband really felt. us would talkaboutitnorhow we relationship, andneitheroneof important issuesgoingoninour both disillusioned,skirtingaround of mundane conversation. We were gone, replaced withdaily exchanges our dreamswithoneanotherwere in which we shared our hopes and values, but thelong,intimatetalks the samethingsandhad still very compatible. We enjoyed nice guy I married, and we were He was stilltheextraordinarily to realizemybestfriendwas gone. elderly parent,Iwoke uponeday changing careersandcaringforan years ofmarriage,raisingchildren, somewhere duringthosefirst19 I marriedhimonJune2,1990,but Marriage Encounterexperience. years agoduringa Worldwide found mybestfriendagain 12 Marriage EncounterHelpedMe Find MyBestFriend Again grant forgiveness of oneanother. decisions to love, andaskfor with ourheartsandtomake daily feelings, tolistenone another the otherinsharingvulnerable the importanceofrisking totrust in ourmarriages. We discovered yearns for all of us to experience find thejoy andintimacy thatGod through ourdisillusionmentand learned gave us the tools to work The communicationtechniquewe and distance in their marriages. experience periodsofloneliness we realizedthatmostcouples couples andaCatholicpriest, to presentationsbythreemarried game changer for us. Listening Encounter experience was a That WorldwideMarriage friend again. In time,hewas becomingmybest slowly returningtoourmarriage. and intimacy Ihadlongedforwas “Thank you,God.” The openness voice ashespoke, Isilentlyprayed, while listeningtothecrackinhis us. As tearsstreameddown myface Pat attendeda Worldwide Marriage Encounterexperience. Services Office, found her best friend again aftersheand her husband Mary-Jo McLaughlin,coordinator fortheDiocesanCatholicFamily the CatholicFamily ServicesOffice for additional datesorcontactmeat national websiteatwww.wwme.org are notgoodforyou, visit the wwmectw.org. If the above dates at (860)337-2447orapplication@ or e-mailFrankandMargie Pearson more informationortoregister, call non-refundable applicationfee.For nights, July8-29. There isa$100 p.m. onMondayand Thursday for seven sessionsfrom7to9:30 one inthisareawillmeetvirtually home usingacomputer. The next experience inthecomfortoftheir – RekindleRenew thatcouples can marriage experience calledRestore sponsoring avirtual3½week social distancing, WWME is To supportmarriedcouplesduring God’s planfortheirmarriage. come toadeeperunderstandingof rekindle theirrelationshipsand experiences helpingothersto is realcouplessharingreal-life clinic or counseling program. It a retreat norisit a marriage A WWME experience is not yours, too. Perhaps Godhasotherplansfor had otherplansforourmarriage. Encounter experience. But God when wewentonourMarriage something I expected to happen Finding mybestfriendagain wasn’t at (860)848-2237,Ext312. p a (Never to known fail) Thank you, Blessed Virgin, for hearing my prayers. Then you must granted.be publish it will and it Mary’s, to be theFather. 3 Glory tive days time followed each by Fathers, 3Our 3Hail (say three times).Say thisprayer for- threeconsecu times). Holy Mary, Iplace thisprayer inyour hands sin prayer for have uswho recourse to (say thee three withstandcan your power OMary, conceived without helpnecessity(please my There family). are none that you from thebottom of my to succor heart meinmy of Heaven Queen IhumbleGod, and beseech Earth, are my Mother. Oh, Holy Mother Mary, Mother of Oh, Star help of meand show theSea, mehere you Immaculateof God. Virgin assist meinmy necessity. splendorvine, of Heaven, Mother Blessed of theSon Oh, most flower beautiful of Mount Carmel,fruitful Prayer to theBlessed Virgin r k e r m P e m a o r ~PM r i a k

l s e @ r y a h o o . c o m 9 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org Memorial Day Services Honor The Fallen

By Ryan Blessing dedicated group of about freedom and our peace.” 40 people gathered In New London, the Mass was AMonday, May 31 at St. moved indoors because of Joseph Cemetery in Norwich under damp conditions at St. Mary gray skies to honor the U.S. Armed Cemetery.“Our country celebrates Forces men and women who have in a very special way those who died in military service to our defended our freedoms,” Bishop country. Cote said. “But we remember, as The Memorial Day Mass in well, our loved ones who have gone Norwich, as well as a Mass before us, we want to remember celebrated by the Most Reverend those who have succumbed to the Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of great virus and those who mourn Norwich, at St. Mary Star of the Sea their passing. We bring all of those Church in New London marked a people to our prayer.” return to in-person observances of way to remember all servicemen we have, the peace that we have. Bishop Cote said the Mass was the holiday. and women who gave their lives The freedom that we presently offered for the brave men and Masses also took place at Sacred so that we could live in peace, and enjoy in this land cost many lives women of the military who died for Heart Cemetery in Taftville in freedom,” Monsignor Les Janik, down through our history. That the country and its freedoms.“We and Saint Patrick Cemetery in Vicar General, said at the Norwich is why, each year we show our also pray for the protection of all Montville. Mass. “Any time we put the TV on gratitude by our presence in our military personnel wherever they and look for the news of the whole cemeteries, offering the Mass, the “We come together as God’s may serve,” as well as those who world we begin to appreciate Holy Eucharist, and our prayers for family on this Memorial Day to were maimed and continue to more and more the freedom that those who died in defending our offer our prayers and in a special suffer, he said.

It is the Soldier, not the minister, who has given us freedom of religion.

It is the Soldier, not the reporter, NorwichDiocese.org who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the Soldier, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the Soldier, not the campus organizer, who has given us freedom to protest.

TELEVISION MASS It is the Soldier, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the Soldier, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote. th August 4th July 7 10am 10am It is the Soldier who salutes the flag, Father Jonathan Ficara Father Ray Introvigne Who serves beneath the flag,

JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | CATHOLIC 2021 | FOUR COUNTY JUNE/JULY Channel 11, WCCT • Channel 20, WTXX • Channel 59, WCTX And whose coffin is apeddr by the flag, Who allows the protester to burn the flag. To advertise call Meredith Vernott

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11 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 12 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org T Spanish flupandemicthat leftmany poorand the effects of World War Iandthe1918 The people of Connecticut were suffering was andisacosmopolitan city. and CoastGuard Academy, New London As thehomeofNavy’s submarinebase Europe, fleeing from famine and revolutions. the arrival ofhundredsimmigrantsfrom experienced inthelate1800sinto1900s the portcityofEasternConnecticut.Ithad traces itsbirthto1921inNew London, Catholic CharitiesintheDioceseofNorwich County Catholic. share theirstoriesandphotoswiththeFour It isawork inprogress. We invite readersto of CatholicCharitiesover thepast100years. summary ofevents cannottellthefullstory Charities, theface ofJesus. The following are thehandsandfeetheartofCatholic brothers, whoarethemostneedyamongus, All whoserve theneedsofoursistersand is marked bytherealityofthosewords. Each day, month,generationandcentury us.” “The Word was madefleshandlived among The FirstDecade A BeginningRootedinFaith ByJacqueline Keller of All Faiths Connecticut in Eastern Providing Help and Creating Hope to Families CELEBRATES 100YEARS CATHOLIC CHARITIES St. John. with thefirst words oftheGospel he storyofCatholicCharitiesbegins and various ministriestothecommunity. encouraged themintheir socialactivities Their pastor, Father Timothy M. Crowley, women, teachers,nurses andhomemakers. Catholic women, mothers, singlecareer brothers inneed.Specialwas agroupof hearts andwallets tohelptheirsistersand and throughoutthestate,openedtheirdoors, as wellmany othersinEasternConnecticut Star oftheSeaChurchonHuntington Avenue, The parishionersofNew London’s St.Mary See aNeed Catholic Women they could. other parishcharities,provided everything The St. Vincent dePaul Society, alongwith many withoutincomes,life’s necessities. left childrenwithoutoneorbothparents, working men,ages25to40.Initswake, it suffered thelossof600people,mostly less severe illnesses.EasternConnecticut 1919 it suddenly disappeared, mutating into River Valley andthroughoutthestateby 1918. Within aweekitspreadupthe Thames first reportedinNew LondoninSeptember orphaned. The “grip,” asitwas called,was Fr. Timothy M.Crow all charitiesinConnecticut. Ten years direction tothesocial action efforts of Its purposewas tocoordinate andgive Diocesan Bureauof Social Services. Connecticut, established theHartford whose jurisdictionencompassedallof In 1920,Hartford’s BishopJohnJ.Nilan, right tovote. Constitution, whichguaranteedwomen the 1920 ofthe19th Amendment totheU.S. the country, motivated by the adoptionin Women was beingestablishedthroughout At thesametime,CouncilofCatholic Fr. Crowley, whosupportedtheirefforts. themselves The Crowley Clubinhonorof families, andmedicalhelp. They called ley people and widows, elderly assistance to for orphans, kitchens, homes including soup and civic needs, money forparish and raised social activities regularly for They gathered unemplo yed, the of All Faiths Connecticut in Eastern Providing Help and Creating Hope to Families CELEBRATES 100YEARS CATHOLIC CHARITIES Social Service. Mr. Thomas Foran, mission oftheDiocesan Bureau of Catholic Men agreedto support the Catholic Women andtheCouncilof representatives oftheCouncil of women inSt.Mary’s Church, At aJunegathering ofmenand received. Social Servicewas enthusiastically for a New London Districtof Judge. Hisexplanation andrequest the meetingandintroducedFather The Crowley Club,presidedover Catholic Women and amemberof Branch ofConnecticut’s Councilof President oftheNew London Mrs. Winifred Foran McGuire, southeastern Connecticut. the perfectplacetostartaBranchin organization, theCrowley Club,was of Catholic Women anditssister branch oftheConnecticutCouncil St. Mary’s, withitsvery active explain thepurposeofBureau. the New London parish, and to to meetwithCatholicwomen in at theinvitation ofFather Crowley Social Service,cametoSt.Mary’s Hartford DiocesanBureauof director ofthenewly established In May, Father Matthew J.Judge, Established Bureau New London sectarian agencies. Catholic charitieswithpublicnon- to combineoutreachservicesof Director, recognizedtheneed Judge, HartfordDiocesanBureau’s help possible.Father Matthew J. in needcouldbegiven thebest social workers sothatpeople word. A maingoalwas toeducate options forthepoorbecameawatch Church’s mission,andpreferential the humanpersonwas centraltothe Washington, DC. The dignityof Catholic University of America in been establishedin1910at The Catholic Charities(NCCC)had previously, The NationalCouncilof Catholic Charities. Member of Norwich Diocesan Communications and Board Retired Diocesan Jacqueline Keller isthe the CommunionofSaints.) Women have risentomembershipin Club andCouncilofCatholic founding membersoftheCrowley articles. Layette Drive for infant clothing and many activities, includingitsannual support CatholicCharitieswithits of Catholic Women continuesto The NorwichDiocesanCouncil total estimatedatleast$2million. given to Catholic Charities, a yearly membershipdrive hasbeen the CouncilofCatholic Women’s 1991.) Over the years, a portion of the StateofConnecticutfrom1927- Crowley Club was incorporated in Council ofCatholic Women. (The Club paid$1annuallytothe Charities. MembersoftheCrowley raised $1,470.68tofundCatholic Council ofCatholic Women had London BranchoftheConnecticut children andfive families. TheNew District provided caretothirty-five In itsfirstyear, theNew London Shelter occupiesthatbuilding.) Catholic Center. (Today Covenant rooms at42JaySt.,known asthe made available totheBureauthree Father Crowley immediately 1922, p.363.) Catholic CharitiesReview, January Grover V. Larsen,Jr., 1986. The Charities HistoricalHighlights,Mrs. (Sources: New LondonCatholic known today as Catholic Charities. Service was established,whichis Hartford DiocesanBureauofSocial The New LondonDistrictofthe Jane ClarkasDistrictSecretary. the New LondonDistrict,andMiss McGuire), was electedPresidentof Catholic Men (thefather of Winifred President of St. Mary’s Councilof (At this100th Anniversary, all Director of of Director to CatholicCharities.) Sullivan Fund,aprominentcontributor father). Atty. McGuireisaTrustee ofthe Elizabeth, andFrank(Atty. McGuire’s McGuire withhergrandchildren,Susan, New London,about1940,ofMrs. this writing.Thephotowastakenin a photographofhisgrandmotherfor valuable historicalinformationand London, hergrandson,contributed (Atty. FrancisC.McGuireofNew of fivechildrenandtengrandchildren. Atty. FrankL.McGuire,wereparents Mary’s School.Sheandherhusband, London mostofherlife,attendingSt. (Catholic Charities).ShelivedinNew the Diocesan Bureau of Social Service a member of the Board of Directors of Women. She helped organize and was of the Connecticut Council of Catholic of the Crowley Club and Past President

Winifred Foran McGuire amember was Mrs. Winifred F. McGuire (1882- 1947) 13 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 14 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org great features! Check outthese recommendations Personalized product View account info withMyShopRite Add circular items rightto cart Shop digitalreceipts List reminders Shoppable recipes Exclusive onlinepromotions Shop together withshared lists Clip digitalcoupons asyou shop 1 Contactless PickUpAvailable at theShopRites ofNew London andNorwich. ShopRite ofNorwich Text SRFHto 20669 to opt-intoday! a linkto clickandreview suggestions for replacements. In the event we have product substitutions, we will text you We’ll letyou know whenyour order isready! We’ll Text You! Norwich, CT 06360 CT Norwich, (860 634 W Main St. WMain 634 Order your groceries online!Delivery isfree onallorders over $175. 8 ) 87-0409 • • Up-fr • A • Highes • Bes • Lar • SameL • All items instore are available Jus Can’t findsomething? e ven fresh sushi! ttention to detail! gest selectionofgroceries available. t leave anote orcallus! t service! ont shoppingfee. Nohiddencosts. at shoprite.com Grocery shopping made simple... t quality! ow Prices OnlineandIn-Store. OWNED AND OPERATED BY THE CAPANO FAMILY CAPANO THE BY OPERATED AND OWNED , ShopRite of New London ShopRite New London, CT06320 351 NFrontage Rd. 80 44 (860) 7-1424 Dear HtofJsu,Inhp Paintings oftheMysteries have skdformny.Ti I broken hatwY ur Fathe To fulfillthisrequirementforthe not justillustration. own transferableformsofpassion, An artistmustbringtothecanvas his depicting themysteriesofRosary. pursue aseriesoffigurative canvases Six years ago, at age 65 I decided to So itiswithFine Art. for othersremainsandis immortal.” ourselves dieswithus. What wedo of Albert Pike “Whatwedofor I amremindedofthewritings By Dr. MichaelSullo wil set.Thnm erciful eys itwlbcomYu r favo, time Iaskforhpcln. not mie.Sayhspr er fo3

days npr omise publcatn and plceitwhYour of theRosaryonDisplay Take it,DrHOfJsu artist, andlecturer. as ateacherofOilPainting, fine have spent most of my adultlife ~MS A video of the paintings can be viewed on website. theNorwichDiocese.org of thepaintings viewed be A video can The annex is open for meditationquiet Sundaysfrom 7:30 am to 12noon. Dear HtofJsu,Inhp have skdformny.Ti broken hatwY ur Fathe wil set.Thnm erciful eys itwlbcomYu r favo, time Iaskforhpcln. not mie.Sayhspr er fo3

view thepaintingsandprayinsilence. a shrinewherepeoplecouldcometo out tobetheperfectplacecreate Patrick ChurchinMystic. Itturned found - the Annex building at St. suitable place to display them was Upon completionof the paintings a Christ. that foretoldtheevents inthelifeof smokey surroundingsareimages the new covenant. Painted intothe ancient temple. With thisbirthcomes I madethesettingruinsof Roses toMaryandlilliesGabriel. narrative theoffering offlowers. Annunciation panelIaddedtothe days npr omise publcatn and plceitwhYour Take it,DrHOfJsu ~PM Dear HtofJsu,Inhp have skdformny.Ti broken hatwY ur Fathe wil set.Thnm erciful eys itwlbcomYu r favo, time Iaskforhpcln. not mie.Sayhspr er fo3

days npr omise publcatn and plceitwhYour Take it,DrHOfJsu ~RD Dear HtofJsu,Inhp have skdformny.Ti broken hatwYu Father wil set.Thnm rciful eys itwlbcomYur favor, time Iaskforhpcln. not mie.Sayhspr for3

days npro mise publcaton and plceitwhYour Take it,DrHOfJsu ~CB 15 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 16 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org facing eachotheratthealtar. Ramos duringhishomily, whilebothmensat life totheLord’s Church,” BishopCotetoldMr. for yourgenerosityandreadinesstooffer your “We allrejoicewithyouandcongratulate Reverend MichaelR.Cote,BishopofNorwich. during theRiteofOrdinationbeforeMost year, calledtheElect,JacobRamos,forward Deacon Lawrence Barile,whowas ordainedlast the CathedralofSt.Patrick, Norwich. in aMassofOrdinationon Thursday, May27,at Mr. JacobRamoswas ordainedtotheDiaconate By RyanBlessing will becomeamemberofthehierarchy ofthe Bishop Cotesaid.“Throughhisordinationhe as aministerofthe Word, altarandcharity,” his bishopandthebodyofpriestsDiocese Holy Spiritinordertobeaneffective helperto “Jacob willdraw strengthfromthegiftof wake andfuneralservices. prayer, witnessingmarriages,andconducting Sacraments, baptizing,leadingthefaithful in of theChurch. They arealsoministersofthe the Gospel,preachingandteachinginname Church, isaministerofthe Word, proclaiming A deacon, an ordained minister of the Catholic

CALLED

on ofHands,thegesturethatsignifiesdivine before BishopCote,whoperformedtheLaying while thelitany was sung. Then, heagain knelt prostrated himselfface down beforethealtar, During theLitany ofSupplication,Mr. Ramos respect. of theBishopinpromiseobedienceand Cote andplacedhisjoinedhandsbetweenthose Deacon. Then, Mr. RamoskneltbeforeBishop the peoplehisintentiontoundertake theoffice of questioned byBishopCoteanddeclaredbefore During thePromiseofElect,Mr. Ramoswas Church, inthegradeofDeacon.”

.. CALLED

spiritual rootsintheDioceseofNorwich. of priestlyserviceinhis heart andgave him degree, hefelttheLordplantedseeds University of Connecticut for an undergraduate and olderbrother, Victor. While attendingthe where helived withhisparents,Noeland Wilma Deacon Ramos is originally from Meriden, received theBookofGospelsfromBishop. Finally, vested asDeacon,Reverend Mr. Ramos and adalmaticfromFather MichaelBovino. newly ordainedDeaconreceived adiaconalstole Following theBishop’s prayerofordination,the power beingconferredontheElect.

.. SERVE of Norwich.” vocation, notinareligiousorder, intheDiocese made clearHewas callingmetoward apriestly my Novitiate year. DuringthattimetheLord of myrelationshipwithJesushappenedduring that myprayerlifegrew andagreatdeepening life withtheDominicanOrder. “Itwas there After graduationhetestedthecalltoreligious was leadingme,” hesaid. the Lord’s call.Iwas excited toseewhereChrist holiness was thecommunitythathelpedmehear seeking afterChristandalifeofhappiness “Living inavibrantstudentcommunityofpeers holiness bythegraceofGod.’” failings, his triumphs and joys, his striving after ‘behold me;thisisJacobRamos,hisfaults and of truthIcouldsaytotheLordandChurch, full freedomandhaving steppedintothelight the LordandChurchwhoIam. That way, in actualization Ihave done mybesttoreveal to Ramos said.“Inthistimeofself-reflectionand the pathJesushasbeenleadingmeon,” Deacon been constantlylearningmoreaboutmyselfand “During theyearsofseminaryformation,Ihave Mary’s SeminaryasaseminarianofNorwich. In thefall of2016hebegan attendingMountSt

JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

“My soulproclaims the

rans fteLr ” greatness ofthe Lord 18 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org T our teachershave given studentsadditional masks throughouttheschoolday. Many of mandates, andrequiringstudentstowear classrooms, adheringtosocial-distancing this yeardeveloping Covid-19 compliant teachers andfaculty have worked tirelessly to stayhomewiththeiryoungchildren.Our essential workers whodonothave theability recognize that many families include a traditionalin-personeducation. They with studentsandtheirparentstomaintain educators have worked exceptionally hard classes part-timeorfull-time.Ourdiocesan classroom, or Zoom, or by attending in-person is by learning from home through Google has changedinsomany ways, whetherit By GinaFoster luckier thanme.” living outmyvocation. There isnoone to work every dayfeelingblessed tobe honor andaprivilege,” shesaid.“Igo mercy forthepast35years hasbeenan about God’s unconditionallove and education. “Educating young people dedicated morethan30yearstoCatholic Events fortheDioceseofNorwich,has Xavier andcurrent DirectorofFaith Andrea D. Hoisl, a former teacher at Events, DioceseofNorwich Andrea D.Hoisl,DirectorofFaith around theglobe. The classroom affected studentsandtheireducation his unprecedentedyearhascertainly 11th Annual SetonScholarship THIS YEAR’S HONOREES THIS YEAR’S Dinner Honorees the StateofConnecticut,wearesohappy to Now thatmany restrictionsare beingliftedin Seton ScholarshipDinner. award ceremony takes placeatthe Annual education intheDioceseofNorwich. The made significantcontributions toCatholic presented tothreeindividuals who have its inaugural year, this award has been Diocese ofNorwich.Eachyearfollowing Contributions toCatholicEducationinthe Reverend MichaelR.Cote,D.D. Award for 2010, BishopCoteestablishedtheMost the exceptional work ofoureducators,in has been well known for years. Recognizing Catholic schooleducationinthediocese The commitmentofthoseinvolved in our person. tutoring over thephone,viaZoomorin community for over 145years.” a significantandvital partofthe its Catholic school has been such pastor andteacherinaparish where has beenaprivilege formetobea St. MichaelSchoolfor11 years:“It Michael Pawcatuck andteacherat Vicar ofClergy, Pastor ofSaint The Very Reverend DennisPerkins, Parish, Pawcatuck Norwich, andPastor, SaintMichael Vicar fortheClergy, Dioceseof The Very ReverendDennis Perkins, and FredericS.Smith. Hoisl, The Very Reverend Dennis Perkins D. hope youcanjoinusincelebrating Andrea support throughoutthepast11yearsand grants. We reallyappreciateyourgenerous Foundation intheformoftuitionassistance students andaredistributed bytheCatholic Dinner supportCatholicelementaryschool All proceedsfromtheSetonScholarship the Office ofDevelopment at(860)886-1928. [email protected] orbycalling for purchasebycontactingGinaFoster at program bookadsandtickets areavailable date from2020.Sponsorshipopportunities, Road, Haddam. This is the new rescheduled at GoodspeedStation,located55Bridge November 7, 2021 at4p.m. The Riverhouse Scholarship DinnerwillbeheldonSunday, announce thatthisyear’s 11th Annual Seton at Saint Bernard.” said. “Thisis thetruereward ofmytime from my students and colleagues,” he of myexperience has beenlearning profession isteaching,an essentialpart to SaintBernardSchool. “Thoughmy year aftersomany years ofdevotion He willretireattheend of theschool Bernard graduate oftheclass1964. to hisschool.HeisalsoaproudSaint School, hasdedicatedmuchofhislife a teacherandcoachatSaintBernard Frederic S.Smith,inhis53rdyearas Bernard School,Uncasville Frederic S.Smith,Teacher, Saint C and oldertogetvaccinated, now that schools, andheurged children 12 be distributed toparochialandprivate about Covid-19 relief funds that will The governor alsogave somedetails year toremember.” did itsafely, andthisisgoingtobea the time. You diditcautiously, you school. You’ve beenopenalmostall year and I’m very proudofthis a specialassembly. “Itwas atough told SaintBernardstudentsduring any situation you can,” the governor Bernard willalways make thebestof and IhopeallofyouhereatSaint “This isayearyouwillnever forget, Covid-19 pandemic. has remainedopenthroughoutthe Catholic highschoolinMontville Tuesday, May11,becauseofhow the By Ryan Blessing Applauds SchoolFor RemainingOpen Governor Lamont Visits St. Bernard, r o t a g i v a N e h t n a d n e r B t n i a S Saint BernardSchoolon especially excited tovisit Ned Lamontsaidhewas onnecticut Governor Assumption Mass Sunday, August15,2021 Feast ofthe Star oftheSeaChurch back toanew normal.” It makes it easier for all of us to get your parentsandgrandparentssafer. it notonlymakes yousafe,itmakes of ouryoungpeoplevaccinated … months andwe’ll getmoreand too,” hesaid.“Another coupleof “I’m anoptimist,Ihopeyouare they areeligibletodoso. Saint JosephChurch Celebration Following Saint Mary Procession to Food Available forPurchase New London Saint PaulChurch 11:00 AM New London 9:30 AM 12-3 PM Waterford

“You were prudent, but you made of hisguidance. easier duringthepastyearbecause his life,andthelifeofDiocese, The bishopsaidthegovernor made before takingatourofthebuilding. Michael R.Coteinthemainlobby The governor thenmetwithBishop country, the headmaster noted. highly vaccinated states inthe Connecticut isamongthemost transmission.” and improving rateofCovid-19 he hasguidedConnecticuttoalow science andI’msuremany prayers, determination, commitmentto said. “Throughhiscourage, times in our state’s history,” Macrino through oneofthemostchallenging “Governor Lamont has led our state students. along withseveral SaintBernard Don Macrinogreetedthegovernor, Saint BernardSchoolHeadmaster NorwichCT06360 136SachemStreet going tobeanamazingsummer.” through thisCovid together, andit’s parents forshowing wecanget the students,faculty, teachersand been. I’mheretosaythanks and Iknow whata tough yearit’s open reallysincethebeginning, so proudofthisschool. You’ve been beautiful schooltoday…I’mjust to alltheSaints.I’mhereatyour said. “Ijustwanted togive mybest “This isahappy message,” Lamont everyone inthebuilding. public addresssystemandgreeting main office bygetting onthe He also had funintheschool’s it,” thegovernor quipped. next year, youshouldtellthemabout would like tocomeSaintBernard “If youhave any Italianfriendswho extended time. her native Italy were closedfor an at SaintBernardbecauseschoolsin happy tobeableattendschool One studenttoldhimshewas miss, whatwas different? were like forthem–whatdidthey to know whatthelast12months and speakingwiththem.Hewanted delight inmeetingwiththestudents Governor Lamonttooksomespecial stressful year.” during thisvery unusualand for theleadershipyoudemonstrated bishop said.“I’mextremely grateful my churchestoremainopen,” the remain open, with few incidents, and it possibleforallofmyschoolsto Fax 860-886-2396 860-889-2374 19 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org Class of 2021

NorwichDiocese.org St. Bernard School, Uncasville Academy of the Holy Family, Baltic | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | CATHOLIC 2021 | FOUR COUNTY JUNE/JULY

. Xavier High School, Middletown Mercy High School, Middletown 20 A collegeprep opportunities. program that Visit place toensure Mercy_Visit_FourCountyCathAd_June21_R1.indd 1 the healthand precautions in students and opens the safety ofall doors to Safety staff. [email protected] |54West Main St.Baltic,CT the Virtual ahfbaltic. org A 860-822-6279 d m issions Center environment with strong Christian 4/26/21 11:28 AM values. A safe ◆ Phone: 860-442-1720 New London,CT 06320 25 SquireSt St. Joseph School young menwho have notyet realized theirpotential. Registration isongoing, pleasecallforinforma Renowned college preparatory boarding school for ◆ Located inscenicsoutheasternConnecticut Catholic EducationGradesK-8 “APlace WhereWeDiscover St. JosephSchool Each OtherinGod’s Love” Celebrating 81 YearsCelebrating New London,CT of ExcellenceIn

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21 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 22 MAY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org xavierhighschool.org 860-346-7735 181 Randolph Middletown Road, Brendan Donohue, Principal David C.Eustis, Headmaster Xavier High School,Middletown saint-bernard.com 860-848-1271 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke, Uncasville Donald Macrino, Headmaster St. School, Uncasville Bernard mercyhigh.com 860-346-6659 1740 Randolph Middletown Road, DeJonge,Alissa President Mercy High School,Middletown ahfbaltic.org 860-822-9272 54 West Main St, Baltic Mother David, Mary SCMC, Principal Academy of Holy the Family, Baltic st-patrickschoolnorwich.org 860-889-4174 211 Broadway, Norwich Sharon Stewart, Principal St. Patrick School,Norwich Cathedral stmichaelschoolct.com 860-599-1084 West Broad St., Pawcatuck Doris Messina, Principal St. Michael School,Pawcatuck SJSNL.com 860-442-1720 25 Squire Street, New London Marianne Cote, Principle St. Joseph School,New London Stjosephschoolbaltic.com 860-822-6141 Hill Baltic 10 School Road, Sr. Patrick Mary Mulready, SCMC, Principal St. Joseph School,Baltic JPII.org 860-347-2978 87 South Main Street. Middletown Fitzgerald, Principal Larry St. John Paul IISchool, Middletown saintjohnschoolos.org 860-388-0849 42 Maynard Old Road, Saybrook Mother Elaine Moorcroft, SCMC, Principal St. John School, Old Saybrook stjamesdanielson.org 860-774-3281 120 Water St, Danielson MarieLinda Joyal, Principal St. James School,Danielson sacredhearttaftville.org 860-887-1757 15 Hunters Ave, Taftville Mother Van Christina SCMC, Principal Beck, Sacred Heart School,Taftville sacredheartgroton.org/school 860-445-0611 50 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton Gail Kingston, Principal Sacred Heart School,Groton

classmates andIhavelearned tocherishevery has comewithitschallenges, Ithinkthatmy Grade 12student:“Whilethispastyear adapt andmoveforward keepgoing.” this wasthesituationwewere inandwehadto Grade 11 student:“We justhadtounderstand where wecouldlearninpersoneveryday.” “We werefortunatetobeinaCatholicschool, than tryingtolearnathome.” “Being inschoolwasmuchmoremotivational faith continued.” in ayearwhereeverythingstoppedbecauseour way tomakeeverything okay. I’ve learned more Grade 8students:“Godwillalwaysfinda love.” Grade 6student:“Masksseparategerms,not she can’t. We learnandplaywithourfriends.” we cancomeeveryday. At mycousins’ school Grade 1student:“Ilovemyschoolandthat about thisschoolyear: like toincludesomeobservationsfromthem teachers abouttheirexperiencesandIwould road. We’ve learnedalotfromourstudentsand school instructionwithonlyafewbumpsinthe learning, ourstudentswereabletohavein- While mostpublicschoolsrevertedtovirtual has proventobeawonderfulsuccessstory. have allschoolsopenwithin-personlearning schools isuponus.BishopCote’s decisionto a veryspecialschoolyearforourCatholic As weenterthemonthofJune,end Dear Friend, Sincerely, Norwich CatholicSchools. very successfulschoolyearfortheDioceseof parents, andvolunteerswhohavemadethisa principals, teachers,staff members,students, I wouldliketothankallthededicatedpastors, dedicated team.” have neverbeenproudertobepartofsucha could remaininsessionfivedaysaweek.I and parentsforworkingtogethersoourstudents Principal: “Thankyoutoourstaff, students students first.” staff fromalwaysputtingtheneedsof occurring onadailybasisdidn’t stopourschool Administrative assistant:“Allofthechanges fully inpersonforteaching.” COVID haspresented,itbeenajoybeing Grade 4teacher:“Despiteallofthechallenges this schoolyear.” in ourschoolwithmy2ndgraderseverydayof Grade 2teacher:“Iamgratefultohavebeen virtual andin-personstudentsaswell.” worked sohardtobridgethegapbetween for ourteachersandadministratorswhohave definitely haveanevengreaterappreciation the simpleconversationsinhallway. We moment wespendtogether, evenifit’s just Superintendent ofSchools Milot George A. President ofMercyHighSchool;JuliaLewis Principal ofSaintJonPaulllSchool;AlissaDeJonge, Photo L-R:LeilaniDuong-Vazquez; LarryFitzgerald, older sisterHolly Lewis graduatedMercy in2020. Julia isthedaughterofFrench andSuzanneLewis of Middletown, her Class of2023. Middletown. HersisterMariannaisacurrentMercy Studentinthe Leilaniisthedaughterof Newton DuongandDeyanira Vazquez of said Ms. Alissa DeJonge,PresidentofMercy HighSchool. fall, andIlookforward towatching themgrow intoMercy Women,” “I amthrilledtohave LeilaniandJuliajointheMercy Communitythis of them!”saidMr. LarryFitzgerald,PrincipalofSt.JohnPaul II. interscholastic sports, drama club, play instruments, and I am so proud are well-roundedgirlswhoparticipateinstudent council,play “Leilani and Julia are not only both high honors students, but they school. the entranceexam. This scholarship appliestoallfouryearsofhigh are membersoftheDioceseNorwichwith highestscoreon This academicscholarshipisawarded totwo 8thgradestudentswho both received theNorwichDioceseScholarshiptoMercy HighSchool. Saint JohnPaul IIstudentsLeilaniDuong-Vazquez andJuliaLewis By MarieC. Kalita Diocesan Scholarshipsto Mercy High School Saint JohnPaulll Students Receive Summer MissionOffered T B 2237 ex. 305 email [email protected](860)848- To register for the free Summer Mission on the Parables of Jesus, please discussion. prodigal son. There willalsobevideosthatassistinourmissionandgroup coin. The finalsession, Thursday, June17,willfocusontheparableof June 10,Sr. Elissawillexplain theparablesof lost sheepandthe parables ofthemustardseedandyeast. The secondweek, Thursday, is andgeneralinformationaboutScripturebeforeSr. Elissadove intothe The firstsessiontookplace Thursday, June3,andlooked atwhataparable senior congregational leaderoftheSistersCrossandPassion. Planning. She shares her talents as a professor, a canon lawyer, and a as theformerDiocesanDirectorofOffice of Worship and Pastoral Sr. ElissaistheretiredChancellorofDioceseNorwichaswell parables andhow wecanapplytheirmeaningstoourlives today. easily remember. Duringthemission,wewillhearimportanceof Jesus toteach central spiritual lessonsina way that His disciplescould on theParables ofJesus y LizaRoach Telephone: 87 SouthMainStreet/Middletown, CT06457 St. JohnPaul IIRegional CatholicSchool Currently the only regional Pre-K to 8th grade school in the Norwich Diocese. Supported financially and spiritually by 10 parishes in the Deanery. Middletown Embracing Service. Li ving Faith. Inspiring Achievement. Community.Celebrating Believe In. You Can Education An to ordinarypeoplewholived inanoralculture.Parables allowed the Parables ofJesuspresented bySr. ElissaRinere, CP. Jesusspoke his June,theOffice of Faith Events offers anotheronlinemissionon 860-347-2978 / www.jpii.org 23 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 24 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org T the communitythatXavier plays.” for yoursupportandthevitalpartin Xavier HighSchool. We aregrateful partnerships withorganizations like The restisfromindividuals and annually comesfromafoodbank. 40 percentofthefoodwedeliver food needscanbemet.Historically, are theonlyway thatcommunity Food Pantry isanamedbeneficiary activities inwhichthe Amazing Grace “Food drives and otherfund-raising Vincent dePaul inMiddletown. & CommunityRelationsatSt. Keast, theDirectorofDevelopment throughout theyears,” saidPeter great partnertoourorganization “Xavier HighSchoolhasbeena Food Pantry inMiddletown. items wenttothe Amazing Grace All ofthecannedgoodsandboxed by donatingthemost. ended withthesophomoreswinning and thecompetitionbetweenclasses By Jeff Otterbein By Jeff School broughtin1,076items, Tournament atXavier High his year’s MarchCanMadness MercifulSaviourGifts.com June ~July~August 392 SouthMain Street,Colchester Closed Sunday&Monday Wednesday 10am-5pm Summer Hours Thursday 10am-6pm Saturday 10am-3pm Tuesday 10am-5pm Friday 10am-6pm 860-537-0079 Xavier Students Keast said. regularly over 1,000permonth,” families usingthepantrywas “Pre-pandemic, thenumberof people reliedonforgroceries? you closeaplacewheresomany pandemic was starting.Buthow do have tocloseasthecoronavirus Food Pantry inMiddletown would it became clear that Amazing Grace Just over ayearago,inFebruary2020, evidence oftheneed. past year, hiswords becometangible helps, but whenKeast talksaboutthe the impact. You know afooddrive Sometimes it is difficult to understand tournament. dress down dayforwinningthe The sophomoresearnedafree gentlemen!” and winXaverian glory. Goodluck there, buy outthesoupaisles… encouraged everyone to“getout the PA systemafterschool,he announced thecompetitionover the Ryken ServiceSocietyfirst When senior Ian Domeika of Help In Time of Need May of2020,wehadmoved from afraid to visit a grocery store. By wait, andpeoplewerelegitimately store serviceshadaseveral month peak,” Keast said.“Peapodandother ended upserving379families atthe delivery serviceforgroceriesthat was acatalystforusstartinghome “The neighborwas correct,andthat did nothave any food. neighbor was concerned the woman not beenseenforover aweek. The woman in public housingthat had The callwas fromaneighborof Then camethephonecall.” to thepantrydidn’t riserightaway. “The numberofpeoplecoming packing boxes,” Keast said. distance fromothers,pre- stayed on,working atasafe “Sixty percentofvolunteers model,” Keast said. in asociallydistanced packaged groceryboxes to work, makinguppre- if they would continue “Volunteers wereasked GERARDIONLINE.COM INSTANT QUOTES AVAILABLE AT QUOTES INSTANT door they leftwiththeirneedsmet.” monthly, and ifanyone cametoour seniors and disabled persons twice twice amonth,wedelivered to advertised thatpeoplecouldcome service differently,” Keast said.“We “It causedustoapproachour would notwork. challenge. Their once-a-month rule once again responded to the drive theneed,sofoodpantry Spikes inunemployment helped the recipient.” to 14,000pounds,allwithoutcost groceries aweekintoourcommunity We have beengettingourcustomers theright coverage attherightpricefor over acentury. and delivering 7,000poundsof Become acustomer andﬁndoutwhy. providing T thirty-five traysoflasagna.Under twenty-four volunteers preparedthe volunteers signedupandatotalof even students that donottake Italian, members oftheItalianclassesand With thehelpofINHSofficers, meal choiceamongstItalians. a goodoptionandalsopopular beyond theclassroom.Lasagnawas to extend theculturalexperience lasagna! The studentswanted they do not ordinarily get served, wanted to offer them something that Soup Kitchenformeals. The society the helpofSaint Vincent dePaul community have aneedandrelyon many membersoftheMiddletown do something different because This year, thestudentswanted to booth, andhelpingwithfoodsales. ticket vendors, in the fried dough the SaintSebastianChurchFeastas past, studentshave volunteered at a serviceprojecteachyear. Inthe Caterina diSiena,mustcomplete By MarieC. Kalita Società OnorariaItalica, National Honor Society, he Mercy chapteroftheItalian Contact Sally Velcofsky: [email protected] [email protected] Velcofsky: Sally Contact SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITIES SPONSORSHIP 16 ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT GOLF ANNUAL 16 Italian NationalHonor Society TH SAVE THE DATE THE SAVE 11AM REGISTRATION / 1PM SHOTGUN SHOTGUN 1PM / REGISTRATION 11AM Catherine andFionaFay whomade4 it again next year!” The sisterteamof so muchfundoingthis,Ihopewedo echoed Ms. Aparo’s thoughts,“Ihad Ms. Aparo. MadilynCarbone’23 forward todoingthisagain,” stated again inaheartbeatandamlooking per tray, I would organize this event and calculatingofproductneeded “Although ittooklotsofplanning a checktoSaint Vincent dePaul. remainder ($113.99)was issuedin than was needed—andtheunused $520.00 was collected—even more the Mercy HighSchoolcommunity. the generousdonationsprovided by and othersuppliesneededallthrough mozzarella, tablecloths, pans,lids, ricotta, 24 jars of sauce, 20 lbs. of 40 lbs.oflasagnasheets,50 and bought30lbs.ofmeatballs, funds collected,Ms. Aparo shopped mozzarella andsauce. With the donated gratedcheese,ricotta, supplies fortheevent. Somestudents worked toreceive donationsand Ms. Daniela Aparo, thegroup Italian teacherandexcellent cook the guidanceofsocietymoderator, CATHOLIC CHARITIES CATHOLIC MOHEGAN SUN GOLF CLUB GOLF SUN MOHEGAN SEPTEMBER 15, 2021 2021 15, SEPTEMBER Makes Lasagna $175 PER GOLFER PER $175 BALTIC, CT BALTIC, to feedthelessfortunate.Iknow an outstandinglasagnamakingevent National HonorSocietyorganized bringing ideastofruition,myItalian calculating, seekingdonations,and part ofit. Through muchplanning, rewarding, and not just the teaching “I love whatIdo!Myjobisso Ms. Aparo summeditupbest, Vincent dePaul ifthey needhelp!” also willingtoserve mealsatSaint have helpedmake thelasagna.Iam Mia Pugliaresadded,“Iamhappy to having lasagnaforameal.” Classmate knowing peoplearegoingtoenjoy a difference, saying,“Ifeelgood appreciated thatshewas making Sophomore AvaGiansiracusa economic impactof$333,570. agencies makingaremarkable of communityservicewithlocal students completed 10,743 hours by graduation.Lastyearthe with aminimumof100hours complete servicehourseachyear Mercy studentsarerequiredto willing tomake moreofthem!” of the35traysagreed,too,“We are love bytheMercy Highstudents.” amazing lasagnalunchmadewith the guestsatSt. Vincent enjoyed an assemble alasagna and MadilynCarbonehappily Ashley Amendola,GiannaLow,

25 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 10 26

JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org Our DIOCESE Executive Director, CatholicCharities By EdwardJ. Tessman without thesupportofFatherLarry, the Willimantic Charities, statedthat,“wecouldnothavedonethis the ParishHallandeventwasasuccess. Father LarryLaPointegraciouslyoffered theuseof to dressincostumesandplaygamesforcandy. October 29th.Childrenofallageswereencouraged Dinner atSaintJosephChurchHallonSaturday, Religious Liberty T of recommendationandinterviews. based upon their application, letters class thatapplyandareaccepted Ministers aremembersofthesenior Minister Ms. Ann Derbacher. Peer C Ed Tessman, ExecutiveDirectorofCatholic By MarieKalita Defending Our Donate yourunwantedcar, truck,suv, boatorcampertoday! You receiveataxdeduction. You decidewhereyourdonationgoes. under thedirectionofCampus and runbythePeerMinisters he annualretreatisorganized Support Catholic Charities of Norwich of Charities Catholic Support Community heldaPastaforHope Council #14andthe Willimantic support fromtheKnightsofColumbus atholic Charities,withthehelpand www.donationangel.org/ccfsn donationangel.org/ccfsn Pasta for Hope–ServingAg WE DO ALL THEWORK-fast&freepickup 866-434-1131 Mercy High’s Retreat Day allows “big”and “little” sisters from allfourgradelevels. This The Advisor Groups include girls get studentstalkingtoeachother. light-hearted activities designedto moved outsideforIcebreakers, the warm day, combined Advisor Groups Taking advantage of a beautiful, “We HaveHOPE!” Charities, JellyBellyMachine, Totally GrossSoda from the Willimantic Advisory BoardofCatholic which rangedfromaUCONNbasket,donated for thosemostinneed. us tocontinue“ProvideHelpandCreateHope” join usforthiscommunityeventwhichwillallow of thisworld. We wereexcitedtohavetheBishop the meatballswerehugeanddessertsout the saucewashandmadeandsimmeredforhours, great evening. The pastawascookedtoperfection, Rice, DanRobertsandJohnDeVivo.” Itwasa Charlie Nadile,LarryKing,SamBruder, Colin from Council#14,specificallyGrandKnight Church communityandtheKnightsofColumbus Patrons bidonovertwentysilentauctionitems DONATE TODAY YOUR CAR

they are Catholic but because we are Catholic. butbecausewe they areCatholic less oftheirrace,creed,orreligion, notbecause ing theneedsofourbrothersandsisters,regard- dom to“beCatholic,” to goaboutourlivesserv- but toliveitout. We areadvocating for thefree- to lifeandtherightnotonlyprofessourfaith, of humangoodsandrights,inparticular, theright We arecalledtoadvocateforthemostfundamental the auditoriumforremarks,visual Hope.” All studentsassembledin minute activity called“Fearto The studentsalsocompleteda20 Peer MinisterElisiaPagliuca said. those unprecedented,tryingtimes,” maintain hopeandgratitudeduring also discussedhow we wereableto including duringlockdown, but we challenged throughoutthepastyear, “We discussedhow ourhopewas theme. activities centeredaround theday’s group discussionsandcomplete groups moved indoorstobegin their After theIcebreaker session,the open andwide-rangingdiscussion. each otherbetterthroughadayof upon thesebondsandgettoknow particular, isatimeforgirlstobuild beyond graduation.RetreatDay, in and formstrongtiesthatcontinue junior bigsisterinSeptember day. First-year students meet their to seeeachotheratleastonceper tfodSrns Twww.introvignefuneralhome.com Stafford Springs, CT 51 EastMain St. Complete Move-Outs Odor Removal andDrapeCleaning Upholstery Carpet, Cleanup andRestoration Fire, Water andSmoke 24 HourEmergency Service Fire & Water -Cleanup &Restoration WATER DAMAGE Like itnever even happened e odn CT New London, 12 Ocean Avenue12 of Norwich/Windham County Independently Owned and Operated and Owned Independently 860-887-0447 Joseph R.Introvigne,Jr. &MichaelJ.Introvigne Serving AllFaiths•Pre-Need Arrangements FIRE AND 443-1871 Traditional Servicesor Cremations FUNERAL HOMES www.neilanfuneralhome.com Directors: JosephR.Introvigne, ood Cause ood everyone hadtheireyeson. from Avery’s Beverages,toatinExitSignthat Introvigne FUNERAL HOME,INC. our First Amendment right toreligious freedom. them knowthatthemandate is inviolation of 5445, andyourelected state representatives. Let Services SylviaMathewsBurwell at 202-205- by calling U.S. Secretary of Health and Human opposition tothefederalhealthcaremandate If youhaven’t donesoalready, pleasevoiceyour us, and faithful. ‘Hehasplanstoprosper also rememberingthattheLordis as aresultofthepandemicwhile the hardshipsthatweeachfaced of ustheopportunitytoacknowledge from theday, sinceitgave eachone Mercy communitygreatlybenefitted Pagliuca added.“Ithinktheentire how thedaywent,” PeerMinister “I amincrediblypleasedwith hope,” shesaid. laugh, prayandbecomebondedby beautiful dayofcomingtogether, to for prayerandsomefun.Itwas a whole Mercy community be together “We weretrulyblessedtoseethe student bodyandfaculty. of thePeerMinistersandentire Ms. Derbachersaidshewas proud prayer. (recorded) presentationsandclosing ln t gv u HP ad a and HOPE us future. (Jeremiah29:11)’” give to plans www.mmpct.com www.mmpnl.com New London,CT (860) 701-9171 (860) 887-7468 48 Grand Street Norwich, CT 860-684-2538 ini,CT Niantic, 739-6112 not

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Four County to harm us.He has Our DIOCESE CATHOLIC Four County F Dave Eustissaidashereflectedonall fabulous dayatXavier,” Headmaster why wechosetobeeducators. A truly year celebrations,dayslike thisare By Jeff Otterbein By Jeff *Daily Mass *End-of-Life Care *Long-term Care *Short-term Rehabilitation Specializing in: By SusanWallace, Executive Director Outreach toHaiti An Action-Packed Day At Xavier “As webegin theendof celebratory daysatXavier. riday, April 30,was oneofthose Dedicating ourlove,compassionand service toourcommunity. through and competing at such ahigh “Besides the obvious ofliving at 7:30a.m. Division IIandIIIathletes inthegym was a signing ceremony for 12 First up,beforetheschooldaybegan, that hadoccurred. www.slivincenter.or .. indham, CT Cluoad Diocese ofNorwich Sponsored bythe Dioces oorwich onsored ythe when wetalk aboutitwe“typically Xavier motto, “Be A Man,” andsaid Brendan Donohue. He spoke ofthe That was amplifiedby Principal individuals, men,menlike Christ.” to becomestellar, well-guided stellar students;wearebeing taught “We arenotbeingtaughttobecome Society. Among hismany messages: the presidentofNationalHonor presided over byDanLyons ’21, freshmen, sophomores,andjuniors, Academic Awards Ceremony for At 1:30p.m.therewas the New EnglandUniversity, football. Malcolm Wilson-Toliver: Western Roger Williams University, soccer; Avery Point,baseball;JasonSalley: lacrosse; Tiernan Powers: UConn William Heher:HamiltonCollege, Williams University, track and field; baseball; Adam Goralski:Roger Hunter Geisler:ClarksonUniversity, New EnglandUniversity, baseball; lacrosse; Drew Errera: Western Ian Domeika:HendrixCollege, Salve Regina University, football; College, lacrosse;ChrisDiBella: Josh Castano:FloridaSouthern Bruni: EndicottCollege, football; Mitchell College, basketball; Jay The signees:NicholasBeaulieu: families gathered fortheceremony. told the students-athletes and their athletic directorMattMartorelli that we have ever asked of them,” these youngmenhave doneall level during a global pandemic, signed. Mitchill (Villanova, swimming) Alabama, baseball)and Andrew signing period,Luke Lappe (North school thisyear. Inthefall senior tosignwithaDivision I Rapuano was thethird Xavier program andtheschool. for allhehasdonethewrestling England. Eustisthanked Rapuano Connecticut andthroughoutNew not onlyherebut inthestateof through thedoorsofXavier, and Rapuano was thebesttocome Coach Mike Cunninghamsaid University. will wrestle for George Mason have taken himdown. Rapuano about theonlythingthatcould claimed thewrestlingseason.It’s won athirdifCOVID hadnot champion who likely would have Rapuano, thetwo-time StateOpen I signing ceremony for Mike At 3 p.m., there was the Division said. pandemic. “You have delivered,” he determination” intakingonthe and the great resilience and students forthe“effort putforth Headmaster Eustisthanked the excellence.” have donetomaintainacademic to thankstudentsforeverything you facing areextraordinary. We want times, andthechallengesyouare actions, but these are extraordinary equate ittoordinaryday-to-day 27 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 28 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org and along 16 and S WAITTE’S INSURANCE AGENCY SERVING AREA FOROVERTHE 100 YEARS WAITTE’S INSURANCE AGENCY Monday-Wednesday 4-9pm erving craft

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NEW! 2 2 2 2 2 2 general interest, specialized topics and enrichment courses such as: offered on astaggered throughout basis the summer. Subjects range from Classes are open to all students entering grades 6through 12 and are PROGRAM SUMMER SCHOOL BERNARD SAINT cycles Economics Entrepreneurship Theory Number Astronomy O Via Geometry Journalism Saint Bernard School Bernard Saint to help meet your family’s unique financial situation. family’s financial your Tailored our unique meet Tuition about help to us Program Ask 860-848-1271 or email Cyr Mrs. at [email protected] 860-848-1271 rigami Also, we are accepting now applications for the2021–22 For about more info class dates, times, descriptions, and fees visit fees and www.saintbernardschool.org or call school year. at theinfo us Contact above. : Grades 6–12 • 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke • Uncasville, CT 06382 CT Tpke London •Uncasville, •1593 Norwich-New 6–12 : Grades

2 2 Writing2 the 2 2 Study Skills Study Skills Math Essay College Prep SAT Science Computer By FatherMichaelBovino in thelifeofSpirit(CCC1458). evil tendencies, (3)let ourselves be healed by Christand(4)progress against fight (2) conscience, our form (1) us helps sins venial our of strongly recommendedbytheChurch.Indeed,regularconfession necessary, confessionofeveryday faults (venial sins) isnevertheless in onthequestionofconfessingvenialsins: Without beingstrictly be venial. The Catechism of the Catholic Church beautifully weighs When thesethreeconditions arenotmet,thesinisconsideredto freely choose knowledge that what they’re doing iswrong;3.) The personmust some matter that isgrave orserious.2.) The personmusthavefull need tobepresentforasinmortal:1.) The sinmustinvolve in terms of relationship). The Church gives us three conditions that venial sin “wounds”the life ofgraceinthesoul.(It’s helpfultothink sees mortal sin aswhich“kills” the life of grace in thesoul,whereas deadly sin(mortal sin) andnon-deadlysin(venialsin).Our Tradition 17). As Catholics, therefore, we alsorecognize the distinction between hedistinguishes New Testament, the in between sinthatisdeadlyandnot(1John5:16- letter first John’s Saint In confessed? Ifso,how? confession iswarrantedwithoutmortal sin? Shouldvenial sins be Canyouhelpclarify what constitutesamortalsinandwhen worth answeringpublicly. Here aretwohelpful questions that were senttome that Ithink are ages. To registercallMarianne at860-848-2237ext. 304 Games are$6each, BINGO cardssentviaemail.Win great prizes, funfor all Sunday, June 13,VirtualBINGO,3:30pm June/July Calendarof Sacraments 101 todoitanyways. Volume 10: Follow-Up Questions Follow-Up 10: Volume A.M.D + .G.+ riches thatGodwantstobestowoneachofus. us deeperintofriendshipwithHim,andtheSaintsremindof benefit spiritually from her? The Lord is always calling us, summoning Saint Therese ofLisieux…well, whocanreadherwritingsandnot Alphonsus Liguorihassomewonderfultreatises on themoral life; and writes beautifully aboutprogressinprayerandthespirituallife; Saint the Saints, especially the Doctors of the Church. Saint Teresa of Avila Lord, the with relationship perhaps onethingyoucoulddoisseekout(moreof)thewritingsof your in this like point a at yourself find If you deeper—He alwayshasmorethatHewantstogiveus. us The secondthoughtthoughistorecall that theLordisalwayscalling grace ofGodandatestamenttoyourowngenerousheart! detachment from sinsthat we usedtostruggle with more—this is a able be to recognize tangible growth in the spiritual life through seeing real to good always is It God!” “Praise is, say to thing first The understanding. what elsetoconfesssoIthinkthere mustbe somethingIamnot are nolonger aproblem. I amtroubled bythis.Idon’tknow His lightonus. in the dark—bringing them to Confession isone way to let Jesus shed Sacrament. The enemyofoursoulslikesforsinstobekepthidden receive grace and healing through the unique and realgrace of the Inotherwords,confessing venial sins can be a great opportunity to net tofindout more. Call LizaRoach at860-848-2237 ext.305oremailher atlroach@norwichdiocese. Join usforavirtual evening ofreflectionto deepen your relationshipwithChrist. Thursday, June 24,Father’s Evening ofRefection, 7-8pm NorwichDiocese.org/faithevents or call(415)655-0001accesscode:1329172663 abortion andhealingforthosewhohave beeninvolved withanabortion.Visit Pray online.Project theProject Rachel Rosary focusesonan endto Tuesday, June 15&July 20,VirtualRachel Rosary, 3pm I havegrownI haveconfessedinthepast spiritually andthesins Class isinsession...

29 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 30 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org Fai h I craziness ofwhatwashappening rate; they gotcaught up inthe cases intheirstateanditspositivity for thedailynumberofCOVID-19 Some peoplemonitored the news for manyofusoverthepastyear. The pandemic hasbeenthat way moving. look ahead and see if the cars are that surrounds youorcan get wrappedupinthecraziness either can traffic. You know I and commuted to Bostonfortwoyears light of day. Ihavebeenthere. sometimes if youwilleversee the By LizaRoach Sparks York City, youmaywonder tunnels in Boston orNew f you have driven through t heart eteadlvn t Anthony, St. O gentle andloving oddi your arms, andthegratitude folded in Encouraged by this thought, Iimplore gentlest of Saints St Anthony, gentlest of O Holy u oefor God and your love crea a oeahsnvrbeenknownto day Novena has never of my heart of will ever be yours. This 13 fail. Say three HailMary's and fail. earth whisper my petition intotheearsof U sweet infantJesus, who lovedtobe to obtain for to you toobtain me (request) Glories and promise publication. n tures, was ever f a to posses i Light at of theEnd Light theTunnel l i n aeyou worthy, made g P ~ full of human sympathy full of r a s CB ~ miraculous y e r Ignite YourFaith. t o harity for Charity His S t . A n powers. when on t h

three o speaker atthisyear’s Diocesan Julianne Stanz,thekeynote mean? in thispandemic. What does this is a lesson to be learned from God of Americans also say that there percent Thirty-five pandemic. the stronger personalfaith because of a of 10people reported having a research, a studythat determined three out Pew nonpartisan fact tank,completed Recently, hope. to shutdowns andoffer a vision of on whentheywouldbringanend COVID-19 treatments, speculating latest vaccine developments and around them.Otherslookedatthe whose Visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks foradditionalresources. n . y , , heart eteadlvn t Anthony, St. O gentle andloving oddi your arms, andthegratitude folded in Encouraged by this thought, Iimplore gentlest of Saints St Anthony, gentlest of O Holy u oefor God and your love crea a oeahsnvrbeenknownto day Novena has never of my heart of will ever be yours. This 13 fail. Say three HailMary's and fail. earth whisper my petition intotheearsof U sweet infantJesus, who lovedtobe to obtain for to you toobtain me (request) Glories and promise publication. n tures, was ever f a to posses i l i n aeyou worthy, made g P ~ full of human sympathy full of r a s BM miraculous y e r t Our community members will encouraging them to come back. of uswhoarealready there doin That those depends, inpart,onhow post-pandemic? churches Will more people return to our coming backtoGod. and the potential that people are up fromthewellandseelight up innegativity. We alsocanlook person whoishopelessandcaught well andseeonlydarknessbea us thatwecanlookdownintothe who each of usis. She reminded used thewellasananalogy for the Woman at the Well. Julianne participants of the Gospel storyof Women’s Conference, reminded o harity for Charity His S t . A n powers. when on t h

three o whose n . y , , heart eteadlvn t Anthony, St. O gentle andloving oddi your arms, andthegratitude folded in Encouraged by this thought, Iimplore gentlest of Saints St Anthony, gentlest of O Holy u oefor God and your love crea a oeahsnvrbeenknownto day Novena has never of my heart of will ever be yours. This 13 fail. Say three HailMary's and fail. earth whisper my petition intotheearsof Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony sweet infantJesus, who lovedtobe to obtain for to you toobtain me (request) Glories and promise publication. tures, was ever to posses with love. to thechurch;welcome them home do thesamewiththosewhoreturn us through His love and we should looking tohavearelationship with of JesusChrist.isalways end ofthe tunnel, which isthelove to betheonesseelightat lives ofourparishioners. We need the in as well as lives our in traffic Yes, there may besomecrazy listen withoutjudging. midst oftheirturmoilwithanearto home, and bethere for them in the them to come back, welcome them return toourchurchesifweinvite aeyou worthy, made ~ ~ full of human sympathy full of s MC miraculous harity for Charity His powers. when on

three whose . , , Catholics andforthoseofallfaiths. Through prayer, education,andpublicactionduringReligiousFreedom Week, wecanpromotetheessentialrightofreligiousfreedomfor beauty ofthegospelinhissuffering andresurrection,thatwearecalledtorespondaggressionwithcompassion. past. Othercasesmayinvolvementalillness.Inallcases,CatholicsmustrememberthatweworshiptheLord whorevealsthetruthand unknown. Insomecases,theyaretiedtoangeratperceivedinjusticesfromthe that numbercontinuestogrow. The precisereasonsfortheseattacksareoften churches anddesecratedsanctuaries. There havebeenover60attackssofar, and es thatbeganinMayof2020. Vandals demolished religiousstatues,entered Another issueofspecialconcernisthewaveattacksonCatholicchurch- sions thatwouldexcludesomefaithsbutnotothers. receive neededgovernmentaidiscontinuallythreatenedbylegislativeprovi- organizations’ ability topartnerwiththegovernmentinitsreliefefforts andto service providers,tocarryouttheirmissionswithintegrity. However, religious freedom forCatholicinstitutions,suchasschools,hospitals,andchildwelfare In 2021thisfreedomcontinuestobechallenged. A majorareaofconcernis freedom inaction. nations ofPPE,andthemany, manyprayerswhereallevidenceofourreligious out SoutheasternConnecticut. The meals,therentandutilityassistance,do- many efforts atCatholicCharitiesandSaint Vincent dePaullocationsthrough rooms forin-schoolinstruction. We livedoutourbaptismalcallthrough This year, asaDiocese,weledtheway inshowinghowtosafelyopenclass- Church teachesisultimatelyfoundinJesusChrist. people whoseekthegoodandhopeforfulfillmentintruth,which The Church’s promotionofreligious freedom expresseshersolidaritywithall their faithinpublicandtoservethegoodofall. Religious freedompermitstheChurch,andallreligiouscommunities,toliveout fied onDecember15,1791. under theFirst Amendment, passedbyCongressSeptember25,1789,andrati- In theUnitedStateswecelebratealonghistoryofreligiousfreedom,protected Bishop ofNorwich Meredith Vernott, 860.887.3933 ADVERTISING SALES/PRODUCTIONMANAGER Wayne Gignac,860.886.1281 DIRECTOR OFCOMMUNICATIONS/EXECUTIVE EDITOR 25 OtisStreet,Norwich,CT06360-3613 EDITORIAL OFFICE Most ReverendMichaelR.Cote,D.D. PUBLISHER Solidarity inFreedomSolidarity [email protected] Religious Freedom Week [email protected] ESTABLISHED IN1989 AND PUBLISHEDEACH MONTHEXCEPTJULY. Made PossibleMade in part through your generous support of the Annual Catholic Appeal Fax 860.859.1253 860.887.9294 June 22–29

Periodicals postage paidinHartford, CT06101andatadditionalmailing offices. July byTheDiocese ofNorwich,25OtisStreet, Norwich,CT06360-3613. Four CountyCatholicIssue6,JUNE/JULY (PE9934)ispublishedmonthly except Ryan Blessing,[email protected] SENIOR WRITER/SOCIALMEDIAMANAGER POSTMASTER -SENDADDRESS CHANGESTO: The HartfordCourant,285Broad Street,Hartford,CT060115 Four CountyCatholic, PRINTING/LAYOUT - Religious Liberty’s monthlynewsletter. up forFirstFreedomNews,theUSCCBCommittee Religious LibertybytextingFREEDOMto84576andsign You canalsoconnectwiththeUSCCBCommitteefor religious freedom. on whatyoulearnbyadvocatingforpoliciesthatpromote a Catholicperspective,prayaboutparticularissues,andact topics. They willhelpyoulearnaboutreligiouslibertyfrom resources, oneforeachday, ondifferent religiousliberty Visit www.usccb.org/ReligiousFreedomWeek foralistof Pray –Reflect Act 25 OtisStreet, Norwich, CT06360-3613.

31 JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org 32 CATHOLIC FOUR COUNTY JUNE/JULY 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org Made PossibleMade in part through your generous support of the Annual Catholic Appeal

14 Dr. RalphMartin Fr. Mills, EliasMary FI Keynote Keynote Speaker th Featured GuestSpeakers

Annual Men’s Conference Gary Zimak Gary Saturday, September25,2021 The MostHolyRosary Location: NewBritainStadium SAVE THEDATE An OutdoorVenue at8:00 openat7:30event •Doors starts

Connecticut Catholic www.ctcatholicmen.org Conference Theme: Dr. Blythe Kaufman Details/Purchase Tickets Archbishop Blair Celebrant Mass a fFaith &Fraternity A Dayof Morning Coffee •DynamicCatholic Speakers! Coffee Morning olbrto f h rhics fHartford, the Archdiocese of A Collaboration of Adoration luxury box •Confession anytime Adoration luxury ics f rdeot ics fNorwich Diocese of Bridgeport, Diocese of Email: [email protected] $45 Per Person •FreeClergy for Exhibitors •Funonthe field Exhibitors SUBWAY Lunchincluded Eucharistic procession prh fStamford & Eparchy of ii asedo day Vigil Mass endof Music By: $20 for Teen$20 for (13-19) Nick Fradiani, Sr. Fr. DonaldCalloway, MIC Keynote Keynote Speaker