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8 Catholic Charities helping the homeless ‘Off the Streets’

25-52 Second Section: Catholic Cemeteries Guide

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Swim Across the Sound to hold 24th annual memorial service BRIDGEPORT—On Sunday, August 8, 2021, Hartford HealthCare/St. Vincent’s Medical Center will host the 24th Around the Diocese Annual Memorial Service celebrating the lives of family members and friends who have been lost to cancer.The event will take place at Captain’s Cove Seaport in Bridgeport with registration at 8 am and the service from 8:30-9:30 am, open to all, rain or shine. It Celebrating Summer & Faith will consist of a reading of names, musical tributes, inspirational by Elizabeth Clyons readers and prayers. For information visit SWIMMemorial@ hhealth.org or call: 475.210.6393. CAS students honor Army Veteran Dr. Cortland Mehl STAMFORD—At the end of the school year, the students at The Catholic Academy of Stamford honored Army Veteran Dr. Cortland Mehl by creating thank you cards for him. The original plan was for Mr. Mike to deliver all of the cards to Dr. Mehl at his home. When Mr. Mike went to his house, he found out that Dr. Mehl was in the hospital. Sadly, he passed away shortly afterwards. Mr. Mike was in contact with his family and provided them with the cards from the CAS students. These cards were on display at Dr. Mehl’s service to show the appreciation that the students at The Catholic Academy of Stamford have for him.

New fitness center dedication at Immaculate H.S. DANBURY—Immaculate High School revealed its new fitness St. Catherine to hold first-ever center at a recent dedication ceremony. The center is part of the liturgical memorial school’s initiative to expand its health and wellness programs for TRUMBULL—Friday, August all students. The fitness center project was designed and created by 13, 7 pm will be the first-ever litur- gical memorial of Blessed Michael McGivney, the diocesan priest who founded the Knights of Columbus. St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Trumbull will celebrate his feast day with a special Mass. A first- class relic of Blessed Michael will parents of alumni, Michael Basile, Anthony Rizzo, Jr. and Ross be present Summer Social for the kids! Rizzo and alumnus Ed Kilian III ‘99. As part of the ribbon-cutting on the altar, BRIDGEPORT—On Tuesday, August 3, from 4:30-6 dedication program, Monsignor Robert E. Weiss, pastor of St. Rose and everyone pm, roughly 150 people turned out on each of the Catholic of Lima Church, led with an invocation followed by a blessing of Academy of Bridgeport’s four campuses for their first-ever the facility. Chairman of the Board David Cappiello and School present will be blessed with “Summer Social.” Both longtime and newly enrolled families President Mary Maloney unveiled the dedication plaque. gathered together to enjoy free ice cream, music, games, and the relic. giveaways. A surprise was that several alumni even showed up on each campus, from the recently graduated right through sophomores in college. Acolyte Installation at Holy Spirit Church STAMFORD—At a recent Mass celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Caggiano, seminarians from the Diocese of Bridgeport studying at Lay Dominican Order welcomes new members St. Joseph’s Seminary and Redemptoris Mater were installed to the TRUMBULL—The Our Lady of Fatima Affiliation of the ministries of Lector and Acolyte. The Mass was celebrated at Holy Saint Mary’s Chapter of the Lay Fraternities of St. Dominic Spirit Church in Stamford, concelebrated by Bishop Massa from St. Joseph Seminary and priests from the Diocese of Brifgeport. Mass was followed by a reception hosted by the Serra Club. With each step, these men assume another function of the Church’s ministry as they move closer to their ordination to the priesthood.

Knights Assembly #100 raises funds for Norwalk PAL NORWALK—The Knights of Columbus Bishop Fenwick 4th-degree Assembly No. 100 recently hosted its which meets at St. Theresa’s Church in Trumbull had a joyous 4th Annual Patriot Dinner on Saturday, July 10 at the St. celebration on April 29, 2021, when three new members were Ann Club in Norwalk. The dinner raised over $1,100 for received into the fraternity as novices, and four other members the Norwalk Police Activities League. advanced in their formation by making a public profession to live by the Rule of the Dominican Laity for three years.

ON THE COVER | CONTENTS JOURNEY OF 6 PARISHES CELEBRATE ANNIVERSARIES 16-17 DIOCESAN LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE FAITH—Sixteen high Profiles: St. Aloysius and St. Paul Programs and events planned Inside this issue school students recently HOLY NAME PARISH, STAMFORD HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS 12 19 Bishop ordains participate in the Sacred 3 Father Guy Dormevil Preserving the church for future generations Notre Dame, St. Joe’s return to the diamond Heart University Summer

Vals and Sals 16-20 Theology Program— 13 ST. CATHERINE CENTER 21 CHANGES TO THE CODE OF CANON LAW Annual graduation round-up a time apart for Looking to the future An interview with Father Art Mollenauer

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Learn more at CTOrthoInstitute.org 3 July/August 2021 Diocese and Fairfield University Creating a Pathway to Higher Learning FAIRFIELD—On the eve of soldier was injured by a cannon- er education opportunities and incomes is less than $50,000 a Bridgeport next summer, to the feast of St. Ignatius (July 31) ball in the Battle of Pamplona, reach their potential. year; the Community Scholars broaden their access to educa- The Diocese of Bridgeport and a moment that lead to Ignatius’ Fairfield University President Program that offers full-tuition tional opportunities. The pro- Fairfield University—one of 27 conversion and ultimately to his Mark R. Nemec, PhD said that scholarships for top-perform- grams currently being explored Jesuit colleges and universities in discernment of his spiritual voca- the University has worked with ing students, including those include locating writing camps, the United States—celebrated a tion, and hence to the foundation the Diocese through ongoing from diocesan schools; and the science camps, and engineering strategic partnership that supports of the Society of Jesus. learning, mentoring, and service Aquinas Fellowship Program, camps at the Diocese’s Catholic pathways to higher education, “Catholic education has opportunities. which provides tuition support Center in summer 2022. and a platform for access to the transformed lives in our commu- “As a Jesuit Catholic insti- for diocesan teachers to attend Among other programs, University’s resources for the peo- nity and across generations by tution, Fairfield University is graduate programs at Fairfield Fairfield University and the ple of the Diocese and the greater forming and informing students an expression of an almost 500- University. Diocese of Bridgeport have Bridgeport community. to lead faithful, productive and year tradition dedicated to the The University also holds also worked together through The partnership titled fulfilling lives,” said The Most life-transforming power of educa- a Financial Aid Night and Fairfield’s Murphy Center for “Pathways to Higher Learning,” Reverend Frank J. Caggiano, tion. We believe that by working a College Planning and Ignatian Spirituality, which pro- consists of ongoing projects and Bishop of the Diocese of together with community partners Preparation Workshop to help vides spiritual direction to stu- joint initiatives, some of which Bridgeport. “At a time when we such the Diocese, we can have a families in the diocese plan for dents and members of the com- are already underway, and others are more aware than ever about significant impact and raise the and apply to college. Since 2008, munity of all faith, and parishio- that are in the planning stage, and the work that needs to be done to level of educational access and through the University’s Center ners throughout the diocese. are expected to be announced make our institutions and oppor- achievement in our region, and for Social Impact, hundreds of More than 2,100 students are more formally later this year. tunities more equal and inclu- further fulfill our promise as 21st University students have worked currently enrolled in Catholic The project is one of the sive as a society, we welcome century university.” with diocesan partners such high schools throughout the dio- University’s targeted initia- this partnership with Fairfield The Diocese’s Catholic Center as Caroline House, Catholic cese, and nearly 5,000 students tives during the current, special University. at 238 Jewett Avenue will serve schools, and the Thomas Merton are enrolled in the 19 elemen- Ignatian year which will extend The bishop said that Fairfield as a hub for the University’s work Center to support program deliv- tary and middle schools, and to July 31, 2022. The year was University’s Jesuit tradition of in Bridgeport and partnership ery through community-engaged one special needs school. The designated the Ignatian year academic excellence and its with the Diocese. Current ini- learning courses and research Diocese also provides religious by the Superior General of the commitment to reach out to the tiatives include The Bridgeport projects. education to almost 22,000 Society Arturo Sosa S.J., and diverse communities of Fairfield Tuition Grant program, which Finally, the University is in public school students who are began on May 20, the 500th County is a major resource that provides full-tuition scholarships the process of developing pro- enrolled in the 77 diocesan par- anniversary of when Ignatius the can help students discover high- for eligible students whose family grams to serve students from ishes in Fairfield County. n

Catholic authors to speak at men’s conference NEW BRITAIN—Bestselling “I think this year will surpass which is especially relevant Catholic author Father Donald that number because people are during this Year of St. Joseph, Calloway, MIC, and Dr. Ralph coming back to church, and proclaimed by Pope Francis. Martin, author and president I believe the Lord is working “The rosary is the weapon of Renewal Ministries, will be through everything,” he said. for our times,” he said. “It is a among the speakers at the 14th “Men need God, and the confer- meditation on the life of Jesus annual Connecticut Catholic ence encourages them to come and Mary, the first and greatest Men’s Conference on September together as brothers and worship Christian who always points us 25 at New Britain Stadium. together in their calling as fathers, to Christ. If we can get people The all-day event, centered single men, priests and religious.” to pray the rosary every day, as on the theme of “The Most He says the conference will Our Lady has asked us, it will Holy Rosary,” will include guest deepen their faith and that even change the world.” speakers, confession, Eucharistic for those men who are coming Deacon Lawlor said the doors adoration, a vigil Mass with to faith later in life, this will be a at the New Britain Stadium will Archbishop Leonard P. Blair, assigned to St. Mary Parish in well-being. wonderful opportunity. open at 7:30 a.m. and there will lunch, exhibitors and an oppor- Ridgefield, is on the leadership “Our secular society wants us “We have to always look for- be coffee and refreshments. The tunity to share with other men. committee for the conference to turn from God and think we ward,” he says. “If a man is com- program officially starts at 8 a.m. “The conference calls all men to and believes it is fundamental can do and be anything we want. ing to faith at a later time, there with opening remarks, followed witness Christ as husband, fathers for men to share their faith and That’s not true, and it’s dan- should be no regret. We encour- by speakers. Tickets are $45 and and individuals, and that has never experiences with one another. gerous,” he says. “Men in our age everyone; even if a person include lunch and refreshments. been more important,” said Bishop “Men need to talk to other world are under constant attack, finds God in his 40s, 50s, 60s or (For more information, con- Frank J. Caggiano. “Each year men and share their experiences and it is important to nurture our later, it is still a great gift.” tact Deacon Rick Lawlor at many men from our diocese par- in life,” he says. “We need to faith with like-minded men.” Father Sullivan stressed the 203.470.8084 or email dnlawlor@ ticipate in conference and return to walk with each other and at times Father James Sullivan, rector importance of prayer and the diobpt.org) their families and parishes renewed carry each other through the dif- of the Basilica of the Immaculate holy rosary, which is the theme Speakers will be: and inspired by the gift of fellow- ficulties in life, at work, in mar- Conception in Waterbury and of the conference, noting that Father Donald Calloway, ship and the opportunity for spiri- riage and in raising children.” chaplain for the conference, Father Calloway, one of the MIC, a prominent Marian priest, tual enrichment. It is a reminder of He says that sharing with believes there will be record keynote speakers, has written is a well-known conference how much we need each other on other men of faith who have attendance this year, exceeding several books about the rosary, speaker on Divine Mercy and the our journey of faith.” experienced these challenges the first conference 14 years ago, along with a recent bestseller Blessed Virgin Mary. He is the Deacon Rick Lawlor, who is is crucial for a man’s spiritual which attracted 800 men. about consecration to St. Joseph, ➤ continued on page 4 4 July/August 2021

Catholic Authors from page 3 Parish News editor and author of more than 10 books, including “Consecration to St. Joseph: the Wonders of Our Spiritual Father,” “10 Wonders of the Rosary” and “Champions of the Rosary.” Ralph Martin is president of Renewal Ministries and host St. Paul celebrates 120 years of the weekly Catholic television program “The Choices We Face.” He has a doctorate in theology and is director of the By JOE PISANI the years the Jews wandered in two special occasions—the 50th Graduate Theology Programs in the New Evangelization at the desert, symbolizing God’s anniversary of the consecration Sacred Heart Major Seminary in the Archdiocese of Detroit. GREENWICH—More than 50 presence among his people. of the new church and the 120th Gary Zimak is author of several books, including “Stop years ago, after St. Paul Church in “And so St. Paul’s became anniversary of the founding of the Worrying and Start Living,” “From Fear To Faith” and “Give Glenville was destroyed in a fire, a round church,” said Father. parish. Up Worry For Lent.” He frequently talks at parishes and confer- the parish looked to rebuild on Leszek P. Szymaszek, who has “For me, it is a very special ences and is a leading Catholic speaker on the topic of overcom- a piece of land it had purchased, ing anxiety. and then-Bishop Walter W. Curtis Dr. Blythe Kaufman is the founder of the Children’s came to discuss plans for the new Rosary®, an international prayer group movement for chil- church. dren. She lives in Connecticut and is a wife and mother of three. They had anticipated a tra- She is an associate professor at the University of Connecticut ditional architectural structure School of Dental Medicine and author of “Children’s Rosary: A shaped like a cross, but Bishop Prayer Group Movement for Children” and “Child Consecration: Curtis, recently inspired by his To Jesus through Mary—Following in the Spirit of St. Thérèse, participation in the Second the Little Flower.” Vatican Council, demurred. The Father Elias Mary Mills, a Franciscan of the Immaculate, has mandate of the Council had been traveled extensively as a missionary priest and is currently rector clear that there should be more of the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Cross, Wisconsin. participation by the laity, so the He will be guest homilist at the vigil Mass. St. Paul community decided, “The been pastor since 2015. “People place,” Father Szymaszek says. Master of Ceremonies Sam Todzia is a Catholic husband, church will be round.” know us as the round church on “I am from Poland, and it was father, carpenter, and speaker with a passion to engage young “Round” because the architec- King Street. As St. John says in started as a Polish parish. A people with the Gospel and a life of faith. He has more than 10 ture lets parishioners focus on the his Gospel, ‘The Word was made couple of the early priests were years of experience working with teenagers, including at risk altar and is reminiscent of the tent, flesh and dwelt among us.’ This even sent to Poland to study the teens and those suffering from mental illnesses. He has a master’s described in the Book of Exodus, would bring people to God.” language because they wanted degree in theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary. n that housed the tabernacle during This year, St. Paul’s celebrates ➤ continued on page 6

We’re So Close Congratulations Thanks to over 12,700 donors, the Annual to the following parishes Catholic Appeal has reached 94% toward for making their goal! the $8.1 million dollar goal Saint Jude, Monroe Help Us Reach Our Goal! Our Lady of Fatima, Bridgeport Saint Peter, Danbury If you haven’t made your Appeal gift, Saint Gregory the Great, Danbury your pledge can make a difference. Shrine of Saint Margaret, Bridgeport Our Lady of Guadalupe, Danbury Faith and Ministry Evangelization and ministry programs Blessed Sacrament, Bridgeport ensure the vitality of our Catholic Faith Saint Rose of Lima, Newtown Saint Mary, Bethel Education and Catechesis Faith-based learning through Catholic schools Saint Joseph, Brookfield and religious education programs Saint Ann, Bridgeport Holy Spirit, Stamford Charity and Pastoral Services Nutrition and counseling programs, housing assistance, pastoral Our Lady Star of the Sea, Stamford ministry and caring for individuals with special needs Holy Cross, Fairfield Assumption, Westport Please make a gift today at 2021ACABridgeport.com or text APPEAL to (475) 241-7489 Thank you for your support. Your gift no matter the size allows the Diocese to continue its mission of proclaiming the Gospel and providing for those in need. For more information please call (203) 416-1470

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Danbury Hospital | New Milford Hospital | Norwalk Hospital Nuvance Health Medical Practices 6 July/August 2021 Parish News St. Aloysius: 125 years of grace and blessings

By JOE PISANI from the region and around the of winter would keep them from world who continue to watch setting forth early on a Sunday NEW CANAAN—At the them each week. morning for Norwalk.” beginning of the pandemic, Father From the very beginning, St. Eventually, Father Kinnally Rob Kinnally urged his parishio- Aloysius has been faithful to his says, a mission parish was nothing but wonderful. These are children in religious education. ners to pray for protection to their parish, which this year celebrates established in New Canaan and very faithful, caring, generous peo- Well over 100 people attend the patron, St. Aloysius Gonzaga, an the 125th anniversary since it was the priest came as his schedule ple. It is an amazing community, two daily Masses. Father is par- Italian aristocrat who entered the founded after a group of Irish allowed, to celebrate Mass in pri- and I am very proud of what they ticularly proud of the parish tith- Society of Jesus and died in 1591 Catholics left St. Mary Parish in vate homes and what is now the do. They share with one another ing program by which 10 percent at 23, while caring for victims of a Norwalk on Long Island Sound New Canaan Historical Society and with the larger community. I of donations are given to charities plague that swept through Rome. and headed into the hill country of Town House. Then, in 1862, the am very blessed.” identified by parishioners, includ- The parish, which has a strong New Canaan. Every Sunday, they first Catholic Church was built on He describes being pastor as a ing hospitals, clinics, ministries of devotion to St. Aloysius, Our Lady would make the arduous journey Forest Street. On June 1, 1896, the grace-filled experience in the tradi- Catholic Charities, schools and and St. Joseph, had their prayers back to Norwalk for Mass, some New Canaan Mission separated tion of many previous priests, two missions in South America. answered. There was never a traveling on foot. from St. Mary Parish and Father of whom are his close friends— “We are a very large congrega- transmission of COVID-19 at St. “We pray to St. Aloysius who John McMahon was appointed Msgr. J. Peter Cullen and Msgr. tion, and I have a great relationship Aloysius during the pandemic and has given us 125 years of grace the first pastor of St. Aloysius. William J. Scheyd. with our other brother and sister he said, “I give our saints a lot of and service and all kinds of bless- A second church, which is “We are very good friends, and pastors in town,” he says. “To the credit for keeping us safe through ings,” Father Kinnally said. still on the campus, was built and I rely on them for history, and they larger community, we offer a sense this whole thing. We never shut In 1917, the New Canaan dedicated on July 15, 1917, and are so supportive of me,” he says. of parish, that there is life here, that down, and the doors were always Messenger reported: “The first 50 years later the current Cherry “Among the three of us, there are you will find support and that you open for people to pray.” Irish immigrants…walked to Street church was dedicated, and 37 years of being pastor—Msgr. have people present for you.” Early on, the parish live- Norwalk to attend Mass. They the old church became the rectory Cullen with 17 years, Msgr. Scheyd The vibrant parish life has streamed its Masses, relying at thought nothing of the hardships and parish center. with 14 and me with six.” many ministries, including a first on Father David Roman’s entailed in fulfilling their religious Father Kinnally, who is in his The parish has almost 3,000 bereavement program, a Men’s iPhone and Facebook. The duties as is known from reliable sixth year as pastor and is chancel- families, most from New Canaan Ministry and Walking With Masses became so popular that testimony; and neither the heat lor of the Diocese of Bridgeport, and some from Northern Purpose, along with an active even now, there are many people of summer nor the cutting cold says, “My experience has been Westchester, with close to 1,000 ➤ continued on page 18

St. Paul from page 4 to serve the immigrants from the saw the need for a church in round church was held on March tiful round church, where “you ish brought in $25,000, which let felt company in Glenville. Many another location because of the 16, 1969 under the pastor Father really felt you were participating them give the center hundreds of Polish families contributed to the many Polish people who worked Boleslaus Rarus, who served the no matter where you sat.” Over pounds of meat and food. construction of the church, and a in the felt company so he filed parish for 20 years. the past 30 years, they have been Frank, who coordinates the pro- Polish firm from New Jersey did the articles with the state,” Father The new church was dedicated active parishioners, and both have gram and is assisted by Peg Reimer the windows.” Szymaszek said. fifty years ago on April 18, 1971, taught religious education. and Lynn Markley, said, “People The parish marks its beginnings The groundbreaking took place and this year Father Szymaszek “When we go to church, we want to help. They want to do from the mid-19th century when on June 1, 1902. Construction marked the occasion with a Mass. see some of the families of the more and practice their faith. They the first Catholic in Glenville, began on the church on Glenville “I told people the history, and kids we taught, who are in college want to be involved in helping which was known as Sherwood Street. Dedicated on October 19, some of the old-timers remem- now,” Pat said. others.... Pastors love our parish Bridge, attended Mass in 1902, it was a frame building of bered the old church,” he said. “St. Paul’s is like a home—we because people are ready, willing Greenwich in 1854. Following the American Gothic design with a “One of the last couples who got worship there but we enjoy serving and able to do things, and it makes English settlers during the colo- capacity of 250. By 1910, St. Paul’s married there, Joseph and Eleanor there as well,” said Frank, who is a their jobs much easier. Parish nial period were Irish immigrant became a parish and Fr. John Filanowksi, were at the Mass.” member of the Parish Council and the Council President Vincent Miata farmers who came in the early Burke, who had been assistant Today St. Paul’s has an enroll- Parish Corporation and coordinator can’t do enough for the church.” 1800s and later farmers of Polish pastor in Byram, was named its ment of 1400 families, 800 of whom of the St. Paul Mercy Volunteers. Longtime parishioner Hope heritage, who eventually worked pastor. After his ordination he had are active in liturgies, church events During the Jubilee Year of Hirshorn still recalls the day she in the American Felt Company’s been sent to Poland to learn the and parish ministries. Mercy in 2016, members of the was praying alone in church short- woolen mills on the banks of the Polish language so he could better “It is a wonderful community parish wanted to commit them- ly after completely her master’s Byram River and were responsible minister to his parishioners. Of the and people are very faithful and selves to the corporal works of degree in theology at Fordham for the growth of the community, 800, nearly two-thirds were Polish. attached to their church,” Father mercy and chose to assist Don University. She asked God, “What according to the parish history. Father Szymaszek, himself a Szymaszek said. “It is a grow- Bosco Center in Port Chester. St. would you like me to do next?” A priest from Norwalk minis- Polish immigrant, said that by ing parish. There are a number Paul volunteers have worked in the Someone came and tapped her tered to the faithful, and Mass was the mid-1950s a tract of land was of young families, and I have a food pantry, and with the help of on the shoulder and asked if she celebrated in private homes. At the purchased at King Street and baptism almost every Sunday and religious education students, began would help out with the parish turn of the century, Sacred Heart Sherwood Avenue with the inten- now that COVID-19 is past, sever- making deliveries to senior housing RCIA program. She said yes. Church was established in East tion of building a new church and al weddings are scheduled.” facilities in the village, providing Almost ten years later, she Port Chester, which is now Byram. school because of the growing Frank and Pat Marino, who food for almost 100 seniors. has her Ph.D. in systematic the- Glenville became a mission parish, population in the area. The school have been parishioners since 1991 During the pandemic, those ology and is director of the RCIA and Father Thomas Finn bought was built in 1963. In 1967, a fire when they moved here with their going for lunch at Don Bosco Center program, which even during the a tract of land from the American seriously damaged the old wooden three children from the Bronx, increased from 80 to 300 people. COVID-19 lockdown had one of Felt Company, where he planned church and, Father says, “this gave describe St. Paul’s as “a very giving “They were overwhelmed and its most successful years ever with to build a new church. them a push” to move forward. parish with so much going on.” Fr. Les asked us to raise money,” 11 people entering full communion “The pastor of Sacred Heart The groundbreaking for the They were drawn to the beau- Frank said. His request to the par- ➤ continued on page 20 7 July/August 2021 Parish News Conversation on race continues at St. James STRATFORD—It began as a and initiate their own programs. was to name Therese LeFever Angie DeMello, who was it and mustering the willingness simple conversation at St. James “Every parish will have a dif- and Angie DeMello, both of co-chair of the St. James group, to change and create a culture of Parish about the issue of racism, ferent experience because they whom are St. James parishioners, is also active in CONECT and inclusion. a conversation at times unsettling will have a different starting off to the Ad Hoc Committee. a member of the diocesan Ad “Parishes have to find their but always illuminating, a conver- point,” Weldon said. “They have Both women, who originated Hoc Committee on Racism. She own motivations to be able to do sation between people of different created a real groundswell of the St. James program, are involved believes their effort was truly the something like this,” he said. “It faiths and different ethnic groups. interest and a desire to continue with CONECT (Congregations work of the Holy Spirit. can’t be prescribed. It has to be And from that discussion, this work. Any anti-racism work Organized for a New Connecticut), “We put together a leader- people in the parish who say, ‘I which focused on the pastoral is a lifelong journey, and the par- which is committed to engaging in ship team of 10 of us and met want to do this thing, and I have letter by the U.S. Bishops, “Open ticipants at St. James are commit- conversations and activities about and decided on a format,” she people who will join me.’ The Wide Our Hearts,” a group of ted to continuing.” race and equity. recalled. “I am committed to the Church is definitely looking at the people from all walks of life She, herself, has been inspired LeFever said the St. James work I do, and the Holy Spirit systemic nature of racism, and gained a deeper understanding of by Bishop Frank J. Caggiano’s program attracted people of is a tremendous facilitator. Our that’s a good thing.” the sin of racism. desire “to shine a light on the sin diverse beliefs—Catholics, Jews, meetings were amazing. I can Parishes interested in launch- The program attracted some of racism.” Sikhs, Baptists and even atheists. only tell you it was God’s work ing their own anti-racism initia- 30 participants, who took part in “He is one of the very few “This is a lived experience being done. It isn’t easy to have tive should contact Kelly Weldon Zoom sessions over seven months. bishops who at the time were say- more than a ‘curriculum,’” she this kind of conversation—about at Foundations in Faith: kelly. They prayed together, they shared ing that we must all address this said, adding that future sessions how we all played a role in creat- [email protected]. their personal experiences, they issue,” she said. “He also made a will provide bias training and ing this demon of racism.” For a full length version of this meditated and they reflected on call to action and formed the Ad feature a former St. James parish- The key to moving forward, story with additional interviews, topics that sometimes made them Hoc Committee on Racism.” ioner who is a neuroscientist and she says, is having the willingness please visit the diocesan website uncomfortable. But from that One of the first steps he took has done research in the field. to accept that we all play a part in at www.bridgeportdiocese.org. n discomfort, they achieved insights into their personal lives and their parish community. John Burlinson, who teaches Black and Latino students in St. Anthony ‘Resurrection Bridgeport, is personally familiar with the Civil Rights Movement, and the experience at St. James Vineyard’ helps to feed the poor proved enlightening for him. “I realized I didn’t really know By ELIZABETH CLYONS put together six raised wooden to the Merton Center, that much,” he said. “I thought I beds and procured a donation of and he knew just how was well-versed in race relations, FAIRFIELD—You may 4-5 yards of nutrient soil. to help. but this opened a greater dimen- notice something different when “Bob is out here all the time, “We brought our sion of things I wasn’t aware of.” you are walking into Mass at St. walking his family’s dog and has first yield of tomatoes During the program, people Anthony of Padua these days. helped with the fencing, gate to the Merton Center were able to tell personal stories Six wooden raised beds are nes- and just about everything,” says on the week of July that involved their families, their tled on the side lawn, surround- Hemenway. 12,” says Hemenway, time in school and incidents they ed by protective fencing. experienced…along with “the This “Resurrection Vineyard” things they did or said that they garden is the product of the hard weren’t proud of,” Burlinson said. work of St. Anthony’s Values The St. James “Open Wide the Environment (S.A.V.E.), an cucumbers, peppers and squash Our Hearts” series was the result environmental component of the growing. We also have orega- of a Foundations in Faith mini- parish’s social justice committee. no, basil, onions and several grant made possible through the “We thought about doing other herbs.” St. John Paul II Fund for Faith something ‘actively’ to assist A generous parishioner Formation, said Kelly Weldon, the Thomas Merton Center in recently donated 16 tomato director of Foundations in Faith. Bridgeport and the people that plants to add to the garden, so “They requested the funding it serves, and came up with it is shaping up to be a great so they could launch a six-session the idea of a parish garden,” harvest! study on ‘Open Wide Our Hearts,’ explains Dr. Jerry Hemenway, “We want to thank St. the 2018 pastoral letter, which St. Anthony’s parishioner and Anthony’s Parish for their addressed racism as a sin through a member of S.A.V.E. “We wonderful donation of produce, a Catholic lens,” she said. started the garden here at St. says Bill Colson, director of For Weldon, St. James Parish Anthony’s in a nice space the Thomas Merton Center. was an ideal starting point. “It has behind the garage on the side of “Donations like that will pro- beautiful diversity and is made up the parking lot facing the sun.” “It has been a real communi- “and they were very appreciative.” vide additional nutritional foods of many ethnicities and cultures, Hemenway says that about ty effort, a labor of love,” says Hemenway says that one of for our Eat Smart Pantry fami- and they had already begun a dis- two dozen parishioners, the Goodrich. the clients asked about cucum- lies and add to our daily menus. cussion on race,” she said. S.A.V.E. committee and a Goodrich says he met a few bers and squash. Luckily, the We appreciate such valuable The materials that were devel- neighbor have all helped to St. Anthony’s parishioners while “Resurrection Vineyard” has donations and look forward to a oped for the series are going bring this garden to life. volunteering in the area, who just the thing…but she may have continued partnership.” to be posted on the Diocese’s Bob Goodrich, a member mentioned they wanted to build to wait a bit for things to start (For more information, visit: Leadership Institute resource page of St. James Parish in Stratford a vegetable garden to give back growing! “We told her we have www.stanthonyffld.org) n so other parishes can borrow them 8 July/August 2021 Catholic Charities ‘Off The Streets’

By KATHY-ANN GOBIN where Deacon Oles now lives. deposit directly to the landlord. “This is a wonderful program The organization will deliver DANBURY—The Off The to directly help people in a perma- furniture and household goods Streets program, focused on nent way,” said Deacon Oles, who to transform an empty apartment getting individuals experiencing admittedly is anxious and eager to into a home. homelessness established in sta- establish a chapter in every state. “What makes the program so ble affordable housing, received “There’s still more work to be special is that it’s so simple,” said numerous donations in July, with done. It requires people to see the Beth Davis, one of the volunteers toothpaste to help people moving “I’m happy so many people the help of St. Mary Church vol- face of the homeless Christ in their helping to collect the items from into their new home have some are so giving in this area,” said unteers from Bethel. midst and step up in their own donors and temporarily place of the necessities to get started. Danelle Hill, a Girl Scout troop The program, founded communities to work hand in hand them in a storage unit. “You kind of reach a point mom who was with her daughter by former St. Mary Deacon to help the homeless.” Items donated include chairs, where you know what people dropping off welcome baskets Michael Oles more than 10 years The all-volunteer group works lamps, dressers and mattresses. need,” said Ann Leiss, one of with basic household items to be ago, is still going strong in the with area social service agencies The volunteer group has added a the first volunteers recruited by given to families receiving furni- Greater Danbury area and has to identify those they can help. special touch by including a laun- Deacon Oles. In addition to ture deliveries. expanded to include a chapter in Candidates must have a dry basket filled with everyday creating some of the welcome In the past, the crew of volun- Bridgeport. The program has also source of income, such as a job household items such as napkins, baskets, Ann also cares for the teers would gather and load up been established in several other or disability income and Off The paper towels, laundry detergent, volunteers by bringing them their personal vehicles to deliver states including Pennsylvania, Streets will supply the security shampoo, toothbrushes and home-baked goodies when they furniture and other items to peo- gather for donation collections or ple in need. other events. There are about 15 core volun- Donations are generally accept- teers and many more may come Merton event raises ed on the first Saturday of every and go depending on schedules month or are requested when and other commitments. there is a specific need or when the “Usually, enough people money for the hungry units at the two storage facilities turned out,” said Dan Kallberg, a in the Danbury area have space to St. Mary parishioner who donat- BRIDGEPORT—The matched every dollar raised, not only utilizes the food accommodate more items. ed his time to help receive dona- Thomas Merton Center recent- helping the program reach its pantry but also helps out in “One thing about the pandem- tions and load a truck for delivery ly wrapped up its spring vir- goal of $300,000. Other spon- the garden. As Yashira stated, ic is that people have been going that day. “It always has a way of tual fundraiser, A Day in the sors included Ridgefield Thrift, “It is important to have these through their homes, so that’s working out.” Life of The Thomas Merton Aquarion and Bank of America. resources because without been a bonanza for us,” said Joe Recently, they received a Center. Over $310,000 was The Thomas Merton Center is a them I wouldn’t have…I’m Simons, who is the administrator box truck from local business, raised. This event was held program of Catholic Charities of trying not to cry…I don’t have for the Off The Streets program Good Directions, and now can virtually in lieu of the center’s Fairfield County which operates family here, so to me, they are and an active volunteer at the do multiple deliveries in a day. usual in-person Celebrity a day shelter that is the largest my family and when I need Dorothy Day Hospitality House, They also no longer have to Breakfast but still brought soup kitchen and the largest food help they’re there.” a soup kitchen and shelter in delay deliveries due to inclement out the Celebrities. Hosted pantry, the EatSmart Market The Thomas Merton Danbury, where he and Deacon weather. by Bridgeport native John Place, in Bridgeport. Center is a program of Oles both volunteered. “Having a truck takes the Catholic Charities of When Deacon Oles was asked weather out of the equation,” said Fairfield County which to speak about homelessness to a Simons, adding that most deliv- operates a day shelter that group of middle school religious eries are on Saturday but they is the largest soup kitchen education students, he asked a will deliver in the week if enough and the largest food pantry, man named Rodney, who was volunteers are available. the EatSmart Market Place, experiencing homelessness, to The group has helped about in Bridgeport. The program join him and share his story with 500 families get “off the streets” is committed to providing a the students. and about 80 percent remain loving, safe and hope-filled “It all started with students’ housed after a year. community atmosphere that desire to get a man experiencing “Our philosophy is everyone responds to the needs of its homelessness off the streets,” deserves a chance,” Simons said. guests and residents and Deacon Oles said. “We do not want people to fail.” respects the dignity of each The students were so moved Many times, people with mini- person. The Thomas Merton by Rodney’s plight that they sent mum wage jobs cannot afford the Center reflects to the individ- money to Deacon Oles to help bigger expense of furniture and ual and the community our him. Deacon Oles, who was not set-up so Off The Streets steps in Ratzenberger providing a The video features staff, shared responsibility to love experienced in securing housing to fill those needs. voice-over from Pixar Studios volunteers and guests of TMC. and support one another. for others, did eventually find an “We are able to fill in the in California, the event fol- Kenneth Graham who was a (For more information on the apartment and paid the security missing pieces to get people into lowed a typical day in the life guest, now gainfully employed Celebrity Breakfast, go to: www. deposit with the students’ funds. housing and supplement what the of TMC dealing with the com- and coming into TMC to vol- justgiving.com/campaign/aday- Word soon spread that he could agencies are doing,” Simons said. plex issues of COVID-19 while unteer his time in the kitchen inthelife or contact Director Bill help get people out of homeless- The work is extremely rewarding. continuing to provide guests preparing meals stated, “I found Colson at: [email protected]. ness and into housing and he “We get to be there when they food and groceries. the staff would listen…I feel To learn more about the services received unsolicited contributions move into their place and to see The event’s primary spon- like I should give back because provided by The Thomas Merton from church groups and individ- the expressions on their faces sor, Mark Kelly of Safety they were here for me.” Yashira Center visit their webpage at www. uals to enable him to help more when they move in,” he said. “It Marking, Inc. generously Cruz, with her family of four, themertoncenter.org.) n people secure housing and so Off means the world to them and it is The Streets was born. so gratifying to us too.” n 9 July/August 2021 Youth and Young Adults Teens embark on a ‘Journey’ of faith and service

By EMILY CLARK 130 drawstring bags with necessi- empowered me on my journey ties such as toothbrushes, socks, as a young woman to get more FAIRFIELD—For one week tissues and dry cereal which were involved in my parish.” early in the summer, sixteen high later delivered to the Bridgeport In addition to faith exploration school students from around the Rescue Mission. Donovan also and service, participants also had diocese immersed themselves in encouraged each teen to take a the chance to develop friendships charitable work, reflection, prayer bag or two home with them to by interacting socially at lunch, and instruction as participants give to someone in need, an activ- during free time, and on a trip in the “Sacred Heart University ity which profoundly impacted one afternoon to The Adventure Journey” Summer Theology sophomore Travis Simon. Park at the Discovery Museum Institute. Funded by the Lilly “It feels so good to help peo- in Bridgeport. Because of these Endowment, this program, now ple who don’t have much, and it opportunities and the depth of their in its fifth and final year, encour- gives me a sense of gratification. discussions, Kisselback said, “They aged the youth to become leaders I didn’t always think about the have created such a sense of com- in their parish and community plight of the homeless, but now munity in just a few short days.” and to discover more about them- activities and real life issues. They stories, the twists, the turns—they I am much more aware of these During the closing ceremo- selves as young Catholics. are not choosing from a place of are learning how to live their own.” issues,” he said. ny, several students spoke of The teens gathered each morn- ease but from what is right and As part of their service com- The combination of faith in their similar faith journeys, their ing on the Sacred Heart campus what is good.” ponent, students put their social action and classroom instruction shared interests, and their respon- in Fairfield for breakfast and Such activities included a justice learning to work one after- gave junior Adrianna Barbee a sibility as young Catholics, the Mass before embarkng on daily financial decision-making sim- noon by making blankets for chil- better understanding of scripture purpose behind the original grant. programs with themes such as “A ulation, a personality inventory dren in hospitals and shelters, real- and how it affects her person- Donovan then left the teens with Life of Meaning and Purpose” which encouraged collaboration, izing that they could personally ally. “I loved reading the Bible a final charge: “Take the grace of and “God’s Call to Love, Lead and theological discussions in a affect change and directly impact and learning more about the God with you and be living icons and Serve.” Though coming from Socratic seminar format, modeled others. Another day, they filled Gospels,” she said. “This has all of Christ.” n diverse backgrounds among eight after the Sacred Heart University parishes, they bonded through a course “Catholic Intellectual shared interest in faith and service. Tradition.” Teens were challenged Focusing on the theme of a in the endeavors to consider ques- journey, the adult facilitators and tions such as what does social college-age mentors led the teens justice look like to you, how can in experiences highlighting social you hold yourself accountable, and justice issues, enhanced by small where did you find God today? It group discussions and journaling was their thoughtful and honest about their faith. According to answers to these complex topics Dr. Patrick Donovan, the exec- that most impressed co-facilitator utive director of The Leadership and SHU Campus Minister Valerie Institute and a co-facilitator of this Kisselback, who identified this program, an important part of a group as very open, intentional, young person’s journey is under- and receptive—even from day one. standing what the church tells “They are really interested in them and what the church asks of their faith and are sharing so deeply them. “They’re gaining a deeper with each other,” she said, refer- sense of who they are as young encing their concerns about the Christians and what is expected pandemic and pressures at school. of them,” said Donovan. “I’m “After hearing about [different fascinated by their responses to the speakers’] faith journeys—all the

August 13th is the Feast of Blessed Michael McGivney Connecticut’s Hero 7 pm at Holy Name in Stamford Celebrate by joining the Knights of Columbus today!

The Young Adult Mass is a great opportunity for people ages 21-40 to worship and celebrate their faith together. Free one year membership Masses are held on the second Wednesday of each month and socialization follows at “Sign of the Whale.” www.kofc.org/joinus or use the QR code

For questions or further info contact Bob O’Brien: [email protected] Use promo code: MCGIVNEY2020 10 July/August 2021 EDITORIAL CLERGYAPPOINTMENTS The Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano, Bishop of Bridgeport, New Norms has made the following clergy appointments in the Diocese of Bridgeport: On July 16th, 2021, the Memorial of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, our Holy Father Pope Francis issued a motu proprio (edict) addressing the prac- tice of celebrating Mass in Latin according to the Roman Missal edited by Pope Saint John XXIII in 1962. The norms contained in the motu proprio Pastor Tribunal Effective date is September 1, 2021 significantly restrict the use of the Roman Missal of 1962, and they require for a term of three years. individual bishops to approve celebrations of the Tridentine Mass. REVEREND HENRY REVEREND WILLIAM In a letter to priests, released on July 19, Bishop Frank J. Caggiano stat- HOFFMAN, from Pastor, Saint QUINLAN, reappoint- DEACON GERALD LAMBERT, ed that he believes it is important that we the retain the celebration of the Jude Parish, Monroe, to Pastor, ed Promotor of Justice for appointed to the Diocesan Mass according to the Missal of 1962 in the Diocese, “provided that future Saint Stephens Parish, Trumbull. Contentious and Penal Cases Liturgical Commission. Effective practice is in conformity with the norms of Traditionis Custodes.” Effective date is October 31, 2021 and Judge for the Tribunal of the date is September 1, 2021 for a Addressing the topic more comprehensively on his recent weekly pod- for a term of six years. Diocese of Bridgeport. Effective term of three years. cast, the bishop said that at present, five of the 80 parishes in the diocese date was July 1, 2021 through offer Latin Masses on a regular basis, and those who attend will not see Chancellor Office REVEREND EDICSON August 31, 2022. OROZCO, appointed to the dramatic changes in its availability. The bishop emphasized that the beau- REVEREND JUAN GABRIEL Cathedraticum Appeals Review ty and validity of the Mass is not at issue; however, the supervisory role of ACOSTA, appointed Vice- Episcopal Chaplain sponsoring the Latin Mass will return to bishops consistent with the origi- Committee for a term of three Chancellor for a term of three years. nal directive of Saint John Paul II. REVEREND MARCEL SAINT years. Effective date was July 1. JEAN, appointed Part Time The bishop indicated that he will take time to consult, draft and promulgate Newly Ordained permanent diocesan norms that will address both the pastoral needs of those Episcopal Chaplain, Kolbe REVEREND COREY who have received spiritual nourishment from attending such celebrations of the REVEREND GUY DORMEVIL, Cathedral High School, Bridgeport. PICCININO, appointed to the Mass, while at the same time remaining obedient to the requirements of the law newly ordained to the Priesthood Effective date was July 1. He Cathedraticum Appeals Review and the wishes of the Holy Father. The interim procedure outlined in his letter for the Diocese of Bridgeport, June remains Part Time Chaplain at Committee for a term of three applies to all such celebrations scheduled from Wednesday, July 21, 2021 until 12, 2021, appointed Parochial Norwalk Hospital. years. Effective date was July 1. the Feast of the Archangels, September 29, 2021. Vicar, Saint Joseph and Saint REVEREND DAVID ROMAN, The new permanent norms will be ready for diocesan-wide implementa- Ladislaus Parish, Norwalk, and Graduate Study appointed as Diocesan Coordinator tion by the end of September 2021. Priest Moderator of The Quasi- To read Bishop Caggiano’s letter in its entirety, visit the diocesan website: REVEREND MICHAEL of Catholic Relief Services. Parish Notre Dame Du Perpetuel www.bridgeportdiocese.org/bishop-issues-interim-guidance-regarding-traditionis-custodes. NOVAJOSKY, released as Special Effective date is August 1, 2021 for Secours in Stamford. Effective date Assistant to the Bishop, to Catholic a term of three years. was June 30. University of America to pursue License in Canon Law for a peri- REVEREND ROLANDO On Unity and Humility Parochial Vicar TORRES, appointed to the In his weekly radio talk and podcast, “Let me be Frank,” Bishop od of two years. Effective date is Cathedraticum Appeals Review Caggiano expressed concern about growing divisions within the Church REVEREND PHILIP LANH August 15. and our larger society. In particular he discussed the virtual meeting of the PHAN, from Saint James Parish, Committee for a term of three United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), which addressed Stratford, to Parochial Vicar, Our Other years. Effective date was July 1. many issues, including the worthiness to receive Holy Communion. Lady of Fatima Parish, Wilton. REVEREND PETER ADAMSKI, Retirement The bishop said that many of the questions brought to the fore in the Effective date was July 1. appointed to the Cathedraticum June gathering have been weighing on his heart for some time. However, Appeals Review Committee for a DEACON AUGUSTINE he urged that all Catholics work out their differences within a framework Residence term of two years. Effective date PIERRE-LOUIS, retired from the of personal humility and Church unity. REVEREND ROBERT BALAN, Diocese of Bridgeport. Effective As he cautioned against division, the bishop said, “The unity of the was July 1. from Our Lady of Fatima Parish, date was July 12. church is always a fragile reality because it involves and necessitates a Wilton, to Saint Margaret Mary REVEREND MICHAEL DUNN, deep, personal humility on the part of every believer to certainly engage Parish, Shelton. Effective date was appointed to the Cathedraticum DEACON BRADFORD L. in the matters of what we believe, but also to submit to the truth, which is Appeals Review Committee for a SMYTHE, retired from the not of our making. It’s a false choice to think I can affirm the truth and let June 15. term of two years. Effective date Diocese of Bridgeport. Effective the consequences come, even if the Church breaks apart. In my mind that REVEREND ROGER was July 1. date was July 12. is not doing the work of Jesus.” MCDONOUGH, from Saint Referring to St. Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians (Chapter 4), he said Thomas Aquinas Parish, Fairfield, REVEREND ROLANDO that the highest priority of a bishop is to teach the truth in love. “When I to Saint Paul Parish, Greenwich. stand before God, I have to answer for my own salvation and what I have ARIAS GALVIS, appointed to the Reverend Francis T. Hoffmann Effective date is August 15. done to help those under my care to live the truth in love for their own Diocesan Liturgical Commission. Vicar for Clergy, July/August, 2021 salvation. In my mind this is an absolutely essential element because we want the conversion of the world…. We are the ones who are going to be judged on how we govern the church in this moment of great crisis.” Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano Advertise The bishop said that we all must examine our consciences when it Publisher To place an ad, contact comes to Eucharistic worthiness. “The Eucharist is the great mystery of Ralph Lazzaro: 203.667.1622 our communion with the Lord who is our Savior and Redeemer, and Brian D. Wallace everyone who comes forward must do all in his or her power to receive Office Executive Editor [email protected] Circulation that Eucharist worthily, certainly without mortal sin.” Every registered Catholic household of Communications Elizabeth Clyons in Fairfield County is entitled “Only the Holy Spirit can see the fullness of reality, the fullness of Diocese of Bridgeport Writer/Editor [email protected] to a subscription. To cancel, change or add truth raised up for us, the two essential pieces living the truth in love; that an address, please email: [email protected] is to articulate the truth, unabashedly, courageously, but at the same time, 238 Jewett Avenue Renée Stamatis Bridgeport, Connecticut 06606-2892 Annual Subscription Price Art Director [email protected] accompanying people in the concrete messiness of their lives.” telephone | 203.416.1461 $20 (within diocese) We encourage our readers to take the time to listen to the Bishop’s fax | 203.374.2044 Ralph Lazzaro $50 (outside diocese) email | [email protected] conversations with Veritas Radio host Steve Lee. During a difficult time it Advertising Manager [email protected] Postmaster reminds us that we are blessed by his strong leadership—his commitment Web | www.bridgeportdiocese.com John Grosso send address changes to: to speak the truth and his unshakable faith that the Holy Spirt will guide Facebook | BridgeportDiocese Fairfield County Catholic the Church. Twitter | @diobpt Social Media Leader [email protected] 238 Jewett Avenue USPS no.: 12-117. Periodical Ronnie Lazzaro Bridgeport, Connecticut 06606-2892 (Radio listeners can tune-in to Let Me Be Frank on Wednesdays at noon on postage paid at Bridgeport, CT 06601, WNLK-AM 1350 radio. The podcast is available at: www.veritascatholic.com and additional mailing offices. Copy Editor (Consultant) © Copyright 2021, Diocese of Bridgeport and the Diocese of Bridgeport website, www.bridgeportdiocese.org.) n 11 July/August 2021 Editorial Our week at the beach

eyes. But as we sat around the joint…and of course, the outdoor Our lives are interwoven with A Young Woman’s Voice table playing a round of cards, shower. memories of this place…a story we were reminded just why this They learn that a long walk of us. And those who get to expe- By Elizabeth Clyons place is so special to us in the on the beach can lead to some rience the joy of it get to feel the first place. of the most special moments magic first-hand. For one week a year, we set and nuggets of wisdom that will Taking this time to rest and everything else aside and focus never be forgotten. rejuvenate is so important. Jesus Libby Clyons is Communications on spending time with each Those who stay for longer, get knew the value of rest. After Associate for the Diocese of other. Dad can be found scanning to experience the joys of attend- long sermons, he would often Bridgeport. She can be reached the tide line for special shells ing Sunday Mass at Star of the take time to himself or with his at [email protected]. and rocks. Mom can be found Sea. A beach parish true to its disciples. following the sandpipers’ path name. Parishioners file in in flip- After what we have all been as they scurry along the shore. flops and shorts, getting to Mass through during the coronavirus t’s that time of year again— learned to walk in the sand here, My sister and I can be found early so they can spend the rest of pandemic, these moments seem the family heads to the the wide-open space perfect for sunning ourselves on our towels, the day in the sun and sand. more special than ever. There beach. For one blessed little legs. anticipating our next jump in the The priest, with a heavy was a time when we didn’t get Iweek, we load up our cars This time last year, the house brisk surf. Brendan can be found Boston accent, keeps his homilies to visit with family and friends. with beach chairs, books and sun- was under construction due to a skim-boarding, throwing a frisbee “short and sweet,” knowing the So now, we hold those we love block, and make our way to our pipe burst, so this year it has had or playing a round of can-jam. congregation will be anticipating a little closer and savor every safe haven on the North Shore of a bit of a facelift. It was excit- Family and friends come and reveling in God’s beautiful world moment of rest. Massachusetts. ing to arrive and see the newly go throughout the week, quickly just outside. A Mass on the beach Wishing a blessed summer Our little cottage has been installed floors, new countertops acclimating to the time-honored was attempted…but once every- to all—one full of rest and spe- in my extended family’s posses- and bright backsplash…almost traditions—a cook-out on the one got eaten alive by “green- cial moments with family and sion since the year I was born. I as if we were seeing it with fresh deck, a trip to the local seafood heads,” that was the end of that. friends. n Body, blood, soul and divinity. The real thing.

Catholic Churches, reduction of Letters of Flannery O’Connor,” turned on the Eucharist, which hundreds of churches to mere the celebrated Catholic author I, being Catholic, was obvi- Swimming Upstream social meeting halls and the recounted a dinner she had ously supposed to defend. She casual handling of the Sacred with critic Mary McCarthy and said when she was a child and By Joe Pisani Species. The future of the their exchange about the Real received the host, she thought of Catholic Church in one Western Presence. it as the Holy Ghost, He being country after another is on trial. She wrote: “I was once taken the most portable person of the One thing I have learned is the by some friends to have dinner Trinity. Now, she thought of it Joe Pisani has been a writer deepest and most devastating as a symbol…. I then crisis in all the 2000 years of said, in a very shaky and editor for 30 years. the Church’s history is what we “Many disbelieve the teach- voice, ‘Well, if it’s a are undergoing now.... In one symbol, to hell with it.’ declarative sentence: Without ing, and even more just don’t That was all the defense s I was walking back to “unaware” of the teaching about faith in the Real Presence of care, which is one of the I was capable of, but I my pew after receiving the Real Presence and 22 percent Christ in the Eucharist, there is realize now that is all I Communion, I spot- knew but didn’t believe it. This no Catholic Church.” greatest tragedies of our will ever be able to say ted a fellow who was lack of belief in the fundamental Many disbelieve the teaching, about it, except that it is A and even more just don’t care, the center of existence holding the host in his hand and mystery of our faith has con- age. When the priest holds staring at it curiously, as if he sequences that go far beyond which is one of the greatest trag- for me; all the rest of life didn’t know what it was or what whether politicians who pro- edies of our age. When the priest up the Eucharist and says, is expendable.” to do with it. Maybe he wasn’t mote abortion should be given holds up the Eucharist and says, Since the first Holy Catholic or maybe he was one Communion. At the turn of the “Body of Christ,” he really means “Body of Christ,” he really Thursday when Jesus of those Catholics who think the millennium, Jesuit theologian it. And when you say “Amen,” gave us the Eucharist in Eucharist is just a symbol with John Hardon, whose cause for you’re saying you believe it too. means it.” the Upper Room, it has the same efficacy as a crust of sainthood is before the Vatican, It’s time for believers to say been the Sun that illumi- Wonder Bread. foresaw dire consequences as prayers of reparation. The Litany nates the Church because A disturbing survey by Pew a result of unbelief in the Real of Reparation to Our Eucharistic with Mary McCarthy. (She just Jesus is really present, Body, Research in 2019 concluded Presence. Lord says in part: “Lord, for so wrote that book, ‘A Charmed Blood, Soul and Divinity. 70 percent of self-identified “I believe the center of the many unworthy communions, Life.’) She departed the Church If that teaching sounds unrea- Catholics “believe the bread Church’s crisis in the Western we offer you love and repara- at 15 and is a Big Intellectual. I sonable, far-fetched or preposter- and wine used at Mass are not World is the doubt and denial tion. For the infidelity of those hadn’t opened my mouth once, ous to you, remember one thing: Jesus but merely symbols of the in an ever-widening circle of who call themselves your friends there being nothing for me in Nothing is impossible with God. body and blood of Jesus Christ.” once-professed Catholics about but betray you, we offer you love such company to say. Having me And like Flannery O’Connor, (I’ve often thought that those their faith in the Real Presence,” and reparation. For the sacrileg- there was like having a dog pres- we all should say, “The Eucharist who believe it’s just symbolic he wrote. “As a result, we see es which profane your sacrament ent who had been trained to say is the center of existence for me; shouldn’t object to receiving the massive desacralization of of love, we offer you love and a few words but, overcome with all the rest of life is expendable.” unconsecrated hosts.) the Mass, hidden tabernacles, reparation.” inadequacy, had forgotten them. (Joe Pisani can be reached Some 43 percent were iconoclasm perpetrated on In “The Habit of Being: “Well, the conversation at [email protected]) n 12 July/August 2021 We Stand with Christ Holy Name parishioners preserve their church

By JOE PISANI nuns,” and a nearby home was has awed visitors from throughout purchased to serve as a convent. the diocese and from many other STAMFORD—Almost 120 On April 5, 1925, work began on places who have come to visit. years ago, a group of Polish the new church, and two years later Today, Holy Name Church is immigrants came to America on Easter Sunday the exterior was led by Pastor Pawel M. Hrebenko, settled in south Stamford in their completed, and parishioners were a native of Lubin, Poland, who search for spiritual succor, and able to celebrate Mass in the lower attended the Salesian Oratory they founded Holy Name of Jesus church. The years ahead presented and was nurtured by the Salesian Roman Catholic Church, which challenges; however, despite the Fathers and Sisters. After high is today one of the most beautiful stock market crash and the Great school he went to the Salesian in the diocese, so they could wor- Depression, work resumed on the Major Seminary and then decided ship in their native language. upper portion of Holy Name. to come to the United States to They originally purchased The parish history states, “The serve the Church. land on South Street and erect- progress was slow, but steady. On He studied at St. John Fisher ed a wooden structure that December 25, 1934, all was in Seminary in Stamford in 1999 would be the church, school readiness for the first celebration and was later assigned to St. and convent. By 1922, the par- of the first Mass in the completed Joseph Seminary in Yonkers, eral other parishes before coming “I was very surprised by the ish entered its Golden Age, upper church. On that Christmas N.Y., where he completed his to Holy Name as pastor in 2012. price he gave us,” Davidson said. according to its history. The Day, the beautiful Romanesque studies with a bachelor’s in Holy Name is the second old- “He told us, ‘This is my church. school was reopened with the structure seemed a silent manifes- sacred theology (from St. Thomas est church in Stamford and parish- I got married in his church and arrival of sisters from Reading, tation to the Savior. If the parishio- Aquinas University in Rome) ioners have met the challenges baptized two of my children Penn., and the pastor decided to ners had their way, He would have and master’s degree in theology. with ingenuity and creativity. here.’ We knew him for 40 years begin a building program that been born in this magnificent tem- He was ordained in 2004 and Parish Council member Boga and decided to go with him.” would provide “a new church, a ple instead of a humble stable.” celebrated his First Mass at Holy Davidson, said, “Our parish is But shortly before he was new school and a home for the The splendor of their church Name Church. He served at sev- a very old one and we needed a about to begin work, the COVID- lot of construction and repairs. 19 pandemic struck. He got The situation became grave in COVID-19 and passed away January 2019, when a wind-driv- before he could start. ST JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL en storm blew shingles off the “I remember that he was in roof and caused extensive dam- the hospital and said, ‘I will do Be Who You Are. Become Who You Are Meant to Be. age to the interior. A large area it. Give me one more day,’” of the roof was exposed, and the Davidson recalled. water penetrated the walls and They approached another interior roof, she said. contractor and were able to work The repairs to the historic out a deal whereby he charged Discover St Joes! church were made possible by the them for labor while Davidson, We Stand With Christ Capital through her contacts, was able Campaign, Davidson said. She to get a good price on materials Open House herself understood the roofing from Metro Roofing Supplies of business because when she came Stamford. The first order of busi- October 24 to the United States from Poland ness was to replace the roof so 20 years ago, she began her own that no more water would enter construction company, Classic and destroy the sanctuary. Remodeling of Norwalk, which The roof was finished in Entrance Exam closed five years ago. September 2020, and then the inte- She consulted with Father rior renovations began, she said. Prep Course Hrebenko and other members of Father Hrebenko and the parish October 16 the parish council and decided council are happy because “The that the most efficacious approach roof looks great and there are no was to replace the entire roof rath- more leaks inside the building. We er than merely repair the damaged are so happy that We Stand With Entrance Exams area. And while she did not do Christ helped us because we would the work, she established a pre- not have been able to do the work (One-time test) liminary outline of what had to be without them.” October 30 or done and then placed the job out And the repairs and renova- to bid and received five bids. tions have special meaning for the November 13 “There was a wide range of parishioners. As Davidson says, prices,” she recalls, “and we as “Those Polish immigrants who a parish council decided to meet came here long ago built one of with everyone. They all came in the most beautiful churches. We Application Deadline and presented their proposals and have great respect for those people, November 17 we were able to ask questions.” and we were obligated to do this However, the process was for future generations. We did it in marred by tragedy because the their memory and out of respect for best price came from JP Roofing them…so that future generations of Stamford, owned by parishio- will have a place to pray and culti- Trumbull, CT | www.sjcadets.org | [email protected] ner Cezary Bartosiewicz. vate their Polish heritage.” n 13 July/August 2021 St. Catherine Center Holy Name parishioners preserve their church Looking to the future

By VIRGINIA WEIR opportunities for meaningful, Future campaign authentic experiences,” Burland includes both FAIRFIELD—Following said. “Independence looks differ- the physical a multi-year planning process, ent for each of our young people, expansion and St. Catherine Center for Special but everyone benefits from the the establishment Needs recently announced relationships they form here.” of a reserve to support program Future project Building For the Future, a capital Academy students have the expansion and to sustain the and garner campaign to expand program- option to continue in the Adult Center’s mission in the long term. support. Just ming and double the footprint of Program after they complete Building plans include a commer- four months its current facility. Designed for school if the program continues cial kitchen for a bakery enterprise, into the cam- 28 students, the Center’s current to meet their needs. a hydroponic garden room for paign, almost 80 building in Fairfield now serves Tom and Vicky Reynolds’ growing micro-greens year-round, percent of the 42 individuals with intellectual son Gus was one of the first par- and a center courtyard for outdoor funding goal has and developmental disabilities ticipants in the Adult Program. activities. A portion of the funds been received or from across Fairfield County. “There’s a void for young people raised will be used to expand pledged. “The “This expansion is the most with special needs after they turn programming, such as after-hours outpouring of important initiative to happen at the 21,” Tom Reynolds said. “We gatherings, additional vocational support has been this project is and the difference Center since we opened our doors were so thankful to find Saint and volunteer opportunities for par- just amazing,” she said. “We it will make to the young people over 20 years ago, and since we Catherine’s. It’s a place that is true ticipants, and a transition program still have a ways to go, but we we serve.” moved to our current site in 2007,” to its mission of respecting the dig- for students to help them prepare are well on our way. I am truly (For more information about St. said Helen Burland, executive direc- nity of each individual. I always for life beyond school. touched at the generosity of the Catherine Center’s Building For the tor. “Over the years there has been respect what Helen says—don’t Burland and members of the St. Catherine community—par- Future campaign, visit www.stcath- an evolution of expectations of what think about what they can’t do, Board of Directors have been ents, families, friends—who have erinecenter.org/future, or contact the young people with disabilities can think about what they can. At the meeting with individuals to brought us this close to our goal. Center at [email protected] accomplish. Our mission all along Center, they live that every day.” describe the Building For the They understand how important or 203.540,5381.) n has been consistent: to recognize Planning for the expansion and value each person, and to help began in 2018. After discussing them become as independent as all possible options, the Board of possible. We need more space to Directors concluded that the best continue to do that well.” option would be to expand the NOTRE DAME Over 20 years ago, a small facility at the current location. group of individuals came “We felt it was important to keep together with a vision to cre- the Academy and Adult programs FAIRFIELD CONNECTICUT ate a faith-based educational together,” said Charles Chiusano, program that would welcome chairman of the Center’s board. children with intellectual and “We have invested a substantial “I’vebeensofortunatetobepart developmental disabilities. St, amount in improvements to the oftheDistinguishedScholars Catherine Academy began in current building, and shared person- 1999 as a small school with nel provides for both economy and Program.Throughthementoring four students occupying two important cross-training. The time is I’vereceivedfromDr.Callahan rooms at the Catholic Center in right for us to move forward.” andtheclosecollaborationof Bridgeport. Four years later, the A workgroup of individuals myfellowstudents,Iwasready State approved the Academy as a from both St. Catherine Center private special education facility, and Holy Cross Church convened forcollege.” and the program quickly outgrew in 2019 to discuss the expansion. —LukaS.’21 ATTENDING FAIRFIELD its space. In 2007, a new facility Monsignor Thomas Powers, UNIVERSITY FALL 2021 was built adjacent to Holy Cross vicar general of the Diocese of Church in Fairfield with the Bridgeport, coordinated the col- support of hundreds of donors laboration, which resulted in a throughout the Diocese. Classes mutually beneficial agreement in OURMISSION are small, allowing for individual March 2021. attention and integrated learning The Center is working with ISYOU. focused on academics, the devel- the architectural firm Antinozzi opment of life skills, and voca- and Associates to finalize the tional experiences. building and renovation plans. Open House In 2014, St. Catherine Construction is expected to begin Center for Special Needs was in late spring 2022, with the new SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17 AT 1:00 PM established, comprised of Saint Center opening in 2023. The Catherine Academy, a new adult addition will more than double Entrance Exam day program for individuals the current footprint, from 6,200 over 21, and an Office of Parish SATURDAYS, 10/30 & 11/13 square feet to 12,700 square feet. AT 8:00 AM Outreach and Support. “The planned addition to the Each day in the state-ap- current site feels just right,” said Please pre-register online. proved Adult Program includes Steve Donahue, a board member ADLs (activities of daily living), and workgroup participant. “It’s exercise, and vocational skill a simple and elegant solution.” notredame.org|203.372.6521 building. “Our aim is to offer The $5M Building For the 14 July/August 2021 Foundations Foundations in Education celebrates six years

By THERESA SCIALLO and Leadership Grants to Catholic out the year to provide tuition School educators. assistance to diocesan-sponsored Coleman, Lisa Ferraro Martino, “We accomplished a lot in BRIDGEPORT—In celebra- “We owe such a debt of grat- Catholic elementary schools Timothy FitzPatrick, Leslie Lopez, our first six years,” commented tion of its six-year anniversary, itude to Bishop Caggiano for his to families in need through the Andrea Maldon, Michele Mitola, Lemoine. “Now as the foundation Foundations in Education (FIE) courage and vision to launch Bishop’s Scholarship Fund, and Joseph Purcell, Henry Rondon, looks to the future, the focus is on wishes to thank donors and what is now a beacon of hope to provide funding for com- Michael Shea, Jennifer St. Victor-de continuing to develop the extraor- friends for their support in advanc- for thousands of young Catholic petitive grants for teachers and Pinho, Barbara Ripp and Sr. Mary dinary board of trustees and grow- ing its mission of transforming school students, their families, administrators for innovation in Grace Walsh. ing long-term sustainable funding.” lives through Catholic education and their teachers,” shared education and professional devel- At the recent annual board “Projecting ahead six years in the Diocese of Bridgeport. FIE Executive Director Holly opment in leadership. meeting, Bishop Caggiano from now, with the rising cost of FIE began life as the Bishop’s Doherty-Lemoine, CFRE. The founding board of trust- thanked the chair, executive Catholic education, we would like Scholarship Fund, an initiative cre- At its inaugural reception, ees included Bishop Caggiano, director, and all the members of to grow our endowment signifi- ated by The Most Reverend Frank Bishop Caggiano addressed Robert Dilenschneider, John the board for their leadership. cantly to assure a Catholic educa- J. Caggiano, which helped make attendees: “This is an historic Eppolito, R. Bradford Evans, “Thank you for your tremen- tion is available to all who seek it it possible for more than 1,500 stu- event in the life of the diocese. Michael Hanlon, Lawrence dous work in stewardship of the for their children,” Lemoine added. dents to attend diocesan Catholic You are now partners in a ven- Kudlow, Ned Lautenbach, Foundation. In all the years we Foundations in Education is elementary schools in its first year. ture that will enable our schools Daniel McCarthy, Anne have worked together, this is one embarking on a strategic planning Embarking on its seventh year, to remain on the cutting edge of McCrory, Thomas McInerney, of the shining examples of what process to help determine how they FIE has awarded more than $18 innovation in the 21st century.” Dr. Julia McNamara, Bernard we can do together to foster the can best serve their constituencies million in tuition assistance to On July 14, 2015, Foundations Reidy, Gerard Robilotti, Joseph mission of the Church.” in the future. The results will guide thousands of students and families in Education became incorporat- Roxe, and Robert Scinto. Board Chair Tom McInerney the foundation board, staff and who value Catholic education and ed as a separate 501(c)3 organiza- Joining the board of trustees since also acknowledged fellow board donors to best serve schools and more than $500,000 in Innovation tion which raises funds through- then are David Cappiello, George members for their continuous sup- their communities in the future. port of students and teachers, “The (To learn more about Foundations enormity of our work has never been in Education, visit www.foundations- more important than it is today.” ineducation.org.) n FIE welcomes new board member BRIDGEPORT—Foundations in Education, Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Henry Rondon to its Board of Trustees. “We are excited to continue to build on a remarkably strong board and welcome Henry’s talent and expertise in education to help inform our work going forward. Those who know Henry only had glowing and extremely positive things to say about the value he adds to our work,” said Holly Doherty-Lemoine, executive direc- tor of FIE. Henry Rondon currently serves as assistant executive director of The Connecticut Association of Schools and Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CAS-CIAC). He joined CAS- CIAC in July of 2019 after serving 22 years in education. Rondon is the sports liaison for Cross Country, Indoor Track, Outdoor Track, Ice Hockey, Baseball and Softball for CIAC. Prior to joining CAS-CIAC, Rondon spent 21 years at Kolbe Cathedral High School in Bridgeport, where he served as a teach- er, coach, club moderator, athletic director, dean of students and ultimately principal, a position he held for five years. Rondon is a New York City native where he attended Cardinal Hayes High School. He is a 1996 graduate of Sacred Heart University where he played both baseball and basketball and earned a master’s in Teaching and a sixth-year degree in Administration. n 15 July/August 2021 Foundations in Faith Reaching out to Young Catholic Professionals BRIDGEPORT—The Members of the Board of sionals are paired with top-level DYAC and, in the words of well as mentoring in the Catholic Diocesan Young Adult Council is Foundations in Faith approved executives for career guidance Bishop Caggiano, “once opera- faith. It is envisioned that YCP extremely grateful to Foundations DYAC’s grant application at their & “best practices” in faith & tional, can be of great help in a members would assist the work in Faith for approving its St. June 2021 meeting, providing business; spiritual guidance— larger initiative to create a Young of the Center, in part by accom- Therese grant application for unwavering support for DYAC/ where YCP’ers are connected Catholic Pastoral Center for panying those peers who may $20,000 to fund the establishment YCP. Foundations in Faith is with priests and other religious Entrepreneurship. The Center not be as active in the practice of of a Young Catholic Professionals hopeful that YCP will ignite a to better discern God’s hand in will invite young adults to their faith. Hence, the proposal is their lives and careers; career address local social needs through one of evangelization.” counseling & more. the creation of small non-for- YCP thanks both Bishop The YCP Stamford/Fairfield profit corporations that they will Caggiano and Foundations in County Chapter will be formed manage, affording them both pro- Faith for their support of young in close collaboration with the fessional business experience, as adult Catholics in the diocese. n New fund to benefit Catholic Charities

By JOE PISANI to support its mission throughout of Catholic Charities through Fairfield County. operational support or endow- The Catholic Charities of Accepting foundational gifts ment growth. Fairfield County Fund has for both current operating and The new fund will be been established to support endowment needs, the fund launched at an August 26 the charitable ministries of the also provides an ideal option for event to be held at the epis- (YCP) Chapter in Stamford/ love for the Catholic Faith in Catholic Church in the Diocese planned giving, McCrory said. copal residence in Trumbull, Fairfield County. young adults throughout the dio- of Bridgeport. “We have heard from many which will honor Al Barber The Diocesan Young Adult cese and encourage young adults Conceived by Bishop Frank of our supporters who are giving and his wife Gina for their Council (DYAC) was established to become evangelizers/spreaders J. Caggiano and the Board of annual or periodic gifts to the years of service to Catholic by Bishop Frank J. Caggiano of the gospel message whether Trustees of Foundations in agency now that they also are Charities, along with Denis in January 2021. The Council’s through involvement at the parish Charity, the fund will offer looking for options to support and Britta Nayden for their stated mission is to “assist level or through involvement in donors the opportunity to sup- Catholic Charities after they are longtime support of the dio- ministry on behalf of young diocesan-wide initiatives such as port the mission and specific gone,” she said. “In addition, cese’s charitable mission. adults through (1) coordinating the newly formed Pastoral Center communication among existing for Entrepreneurship and Pastoral ministries, (2) creating opportu- Center for Culture. nities for community building Young Catholic Professionals among young adults, (3) offering (YCP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, faith formation and leadership founded in 2010, with a mission training to those who desire it to challenge, train, and encourage and (4) identifying best practices young adults working in various to evangelize and form young professions to work in witness for adults in the life of faith.” Christ. YCP is dedicated to fos- Bishop Caggiano has been tering Catholic identity, encour- instrumental in leading the aging community and inspiring a programs of Catholic Charities many long-term residents of The event is being jointly growth of the young adult com- call to action for young Catholics now and into the future, Fairfield County who are now liv- sponsored by Foundations in munity in the diocese. He recog- in their 20’s and 30’s so that they according to Anne McCrory, ing elsewhere can use this option Charity and Catholic Charities nizes that young adults are the may be empowered to see their the chair of Foundations in to support Catholic Charities in of Fairfield County, the two future of the Church and that workplaces as a natural site for Charity Board. “While we their estate planning. The Catholic organizations which Barber led. ministering to them is essential. evangelization. hope to expand our reach to Charities of Fairfield County Barber recently announced Through the Diocesan Young YCP fulfills its purpose other Catholic mission work Fund is ideal for these purposes.” his retirement as executive Adult Council, he has provided through executive speaker in the county, right now we “There is a tremendous desire director of Foundations in a medium for young adults to series—where top-level Catholic are committed to Catholic for those planning their estates Charity, a position he held voice their opinions/concerns. executives are invited to speak Charities, as the scope of what to ensure the charitable works of since it began two years ago, When the idea of starting a YCP and share their professional/ they are doing in our county the Catholic Church can continue following 16 years as presi- Chapter in Stamford/Fairfield faith journeys; networking is extraordinary and truly lives long after we are all gone,” said dent of Catholic Charities of County was raised at one of happy hours—which allow the mission of the Church” says Bishop Caggiano, emphasizing Fairfield County. the monthly DYAC meetings, young professionals to enjoy Michael McNulty, a trustee that many of the faithful are look- (For more information about Bishop Caggiano provided his fellowship and learn about YCP of Foundations in Charity. ing for a specific way to endow the launch of the Fund and how full support and helped to pro- in a casual setting; virtue-based Foundations in Charity, a the works of charity into the you can make a gift, go to the cure funding by reaching out panel discussions— focused 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, future. Foundations in Charity Foundations in Charity at www. to Foundations in Faith and Q&A and small group discus- was created in 2018 and has will do this by establishing this givecentral.org/appeals-form-reg- asking for financial assistance sions about living virtuously in already provided critical operat- fund, which allows donors to istration/acp5f0e2566c9069/ from the St. Therese Fund for the workplace; executive men- ing funds to Catholic Charities support the mission and programs user/guest) n Evangelization. torship—where young profes-

16 July/August 2021 Leadership Institute What’s Next at The Leadership Institute Below are some of The Catholic Biblical School To request an application, November 10 – Joan Kelly – you have not yet completed for- mation, you may do so online. September 11 – Orientation please email [email protected]. Lumen gentium the events and programs December 8 – This workshop is for those who Classes meet Thursday evenings Documents That (Still) Matter Father Peter Lenox, SLL, MLM would prefer to meet in person planned for 2021-2022. beginning September 23 Every Second Wednesday – 7:30 pm – Sacrosanctum concilium and/or do not have a way to For complete details and from 6:30 to 8:30 pm January 12 – Fr. Joseph Gill – complete formation via the Join us once a month to unpack Familiaris Consortio online platform. Pre-registration registration information, The Archdiocese of Hartford a Church document—from our February 9 – John Rinaldo – is required, and more details please visit formationre- Catholic Biblical School (CBS) collective past and present—and Faithful Citizenship can be found at the Institute has been a kind of “hearing aid” learn more about the implications March 9 – Joan Kelly – website. Please note, this is not imagined.org. for thousands of adults through- for the faithful of today. Every Nostra aetate a workshop for renewing your out New England as they engage second Wednesday evening at April 13 – Marilyn Santos – mandate; it is only for new litur- God’s Word in every book of 7:30 pm, we will gather virtually Redemptoris missio gical ministers. Catechetical Summit the Bible. Starting in Fall 20201, to learn a bit more. May 11 – Amy McEntee – August 25, 2021 the Catholic Biblical School will Each document will be avail- Inter mirifica Preparation for Convalidation be meeting in Bridgeport (and able in advance online and, if we June 8 – Patrick Donovan – of Marriage Bishop Caggiano and the team maybe Stamford). have it, a summary and talking Caritas in veritate Saturday, October 30, 2021 from The Leadership Institute There will be two locations points. Dates, presenters, and from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm will lead a discussion about how available—the Catholic Center topics are as follows: Best Practices for RCIA we can reimagine faith formation (Bridgeport) and Holy Spirit Sunday, September 12, 2021 There are many couples in our together. All pastors, parochial parish in Stamford. Each year of Dates: at 2:30 pm diocese who are married, but not vicars, faith formation leaders, the four-year program runs for September 8 – Ela Milewska – married sacramentally. Those youth ministers, and other team 30 weeks. The cost is only $380, Gaudete in domino The RCIA (Rite of Christian numbers increased during the members are invited and encour- a bit more if you wish to take October 13 – Kathi Bonner – Initiation of Adults), also called pandemic. “Convalidation” aged to attend. courses for college credit. Dei verbum the Catechumenate, is a process comes from two Latin words and of initiation into the Catholic means that a couple is getting Community of Faith for per- married “with validity.” A con- sons who are experiencing a validation is a celebration of the conversion in their lives and sacrament of marriage, one of the seeking either Christian bap- Church’s seven sacraments, all tism in the Catholic Church of which are gifts given to us by or full Communion with the Jesus Christ so that we can share Catholic tradition of Eucharist in God’s life and grow closer to and Confirmation. This work- Him. If you are married civily, shop is for parish RCIA teams but not sacramentally, and wish to discuss best practices, dioce- to have your marriage elevated san and canonical policies, and to a sacramental marriage, this to share resources that parish workshop is for you. Sessions will leaders have found most help- be in English and Spanish. Please ful. Our guide for the afternoon see the website for the required is Lisa Orchen, author and registration material. RCIA expert. Pre-registration is required. Christology 101 Celebrating November 3, and 4, 2021 – Praying with Parish Staff 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Friday, September 17, 2021 – or 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm 9:30 am to 2:00 pm A two morning or two evening Wedding Anniversaries All receptionists, bookkeepers, experience with Dr. Patrick secretaries, and other parish staff Donovan, outlining who the per- All those celebrating their 25th, 30th, 35th, 40th, 45th, or 50+ anniversary who work so tirelessly to offer a son of Jesus was to his followers and how, by studying the life of are invited to gather at St. Matthew’s parish on great first impression for our par- ishes are invited to join in a day Christ, we might make Matthew’s of prayer, food, and conversation confession of faith (Mt 16:16) our Saturday, September 25, 2021 about the important role you play own. Two chances to join. See in our parish communities. the institute website for registra- at either 10:30 am or 1:00 pm for a Mass celebrated by Bishop Caggiano. tion information. Space is limited to four guests. Face-to-Face Formation for Liturgical Ministers Volunteer Management 101 To register, please email the first name of both bride and groom, your email and Sunday, October 17, 2021 – 2:00 pm November 3, and 4, 2021 – 9:00 am to 12:00 pm your wedding date to [email protected] or call Barbara at 203-416-1641. Tuesday, January 18, 2022 – 7:30 pm Saturday, March 5, 2022 or 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm (as part of Ministry Day) What is the secret to inviting, If you hope to be a Reader or managing, and keeping volun- Extraordinary Minister of Holy teers? Whether we are talking Communion at your parish and ➤ continued on page 17 17 July/August 2021 Leadership Institute

What’s Next from page 16

What’s Next at The Leadership Institute about catechists, liturgical min- Best Practices for Sacristans ly, join us for a short workshop March 7, 2019. Now, back, and Family Bible Challenge isters, or folks to help with the Saturday, January 22, 2022 to discuss the best practices for better than ever, Ministry Day parish picnic, what is the silver from 10:00 am to noon sacristans—and allow us to show begins at 9:00 am at All Saints Season Ten launches August bullet when it comes to finding our appreciate for all you do. School in Norwalk, with Mass 15, 2021 and your family is the right people and making sure Nearly every Catholic faith com- celebrated by Bishop Caggiano invited to participate. Now they know how much we appre- munity has those quiet volunteers Ministry Day 2022 and continues with a wide variety Saturday, March 5, 2022 – 9:00 am with a following of more ciate their assistance? Join us who assist parish clergy to main- of workshops for you to attend. than 10,000 households, The for a workshop to discover best tain the vessels and vestments for Looking back, we had no idea Come to learn, pray, enjoy the Family Bible Challenge is in practices and answers to all your the parish. To help these great how much the world would music, or see friends you met two more than a dozen dioceses. volunteer questions. people do their ministry effective- change when we gathered on years ago! n Each Sunday, families receive an email with a passage to read and reflection questions to discuss. Then on Thursday, Calling All Parishes: Form a Reading Group families receive a quiz they Get your friends together at your parish and start reading! This year, The Leadership Institute will help parishes get great discounts on books, can take together to test their provide a study and reflection guide, and then invite all those who have participated to join us for lunch and a conversation with the author. knowledge of Scripture and the Catholic faith in general. Email [email protected] to request books. Then be sure to set your own schedule so that your group is finished in advance of the luncheon. If your parish does not form a group, feel free to read the book on your own and join us anyway. Mark your calendars for future seasons: August 15, 2021 – Season Ten who lectures globally about leader- is committed to seeing it flourish. Fall 2021 Spring 2022 November 7, 2021 – Real Presence: What Does It Mean Everyone Leads: How to Revitalize ship, Lowney speaks credibly about Gather on your own in your the institution’s challenges and parish and be ready for a conver- Season Eleven and Why Does It Matter? the Catholic Church February 6, 2022 – By Dr. Timothy O’Malley By Chris Lowney potential. And, as chair of one of sation with Chris on March 10, Catholicism’s largest hospital sys- 2022. To place an order for books Season Twelve Deadline to order books: Deadline to order books: April 24, 2022 – Season Thirteen September 15, 2021 January 15, 2022 tems, he writes “from within” as a and the discussion guide, email Catholic who loves his church and [email protected]. n Lunch with the author: Lunch with the author: October 15, 2021 March 10, 2022

Most Catholics don’t believe Drawing on decades of leadership The Catholic Biblical School that Jesus is really present in experience, bestselling author Hearing God’s Word in Life and Ministry the Eucharist. Rather, they see Chris Lowney examines the pro- the bread and wine of Holy found challenges facing the global Do you ever wish you had a “hearing aid” to clarify God’s Communion as mere symbols of Catholic Church, shares real-life voice speaking in your heart? Now more than ever, we Christ’s body and blood. Is that stories of Catholics making a dif- need the voice of Jesus to speak the words of everlasting ference, and offers practical sugges- disbelief just a misunderstanding life to us and to our world. The Bible is God’s Word, and or is it a blatant rejection of one tions for change. The Catholic Church is suffer- Christians can encounter God’s voice more clearly in the of the central beliefs of the faith? Bible by engaging the tools of Scripture study and prayer In Real Presence, University of ing its worst decline in five centu- ries—a precipitous slide that will that the Church finds indispensable for Christian disciples. Notre Dame theologian Timothy turn catastrophic unless reversed by P. O’Malley clears up the confu- fundamental changes in strategy, The Archdiocese of Hartford Catholic Biblical School (CBS) been a kind of “hearing aid” for sion and shows you how to learn culture, and leadership style. Even thousands of adults throughout New England as they engage God’s Word in every book of to love God and neighbor through the inspiring leadership of Pope the Bible. And this fall the Catholic Biblical School will be meeting in Bridgeport! a deeper understanding of the doc- Francis will not reverse the slide trine of real presence. without a strategy for action, from A 2019 study by the Pew the grassroots through the hierarchy. The CBS Core program is recommended for all who desire to meet the Lord in a deeper Research Center found that Chris Lowney, a former Jesuit sem- way through Sacred Scripture and invites adults to apply who expect to be able to almost seventy percent of inarian and business executive who complete the requirements for 2-4 years. Prior experience with Bible study is not required. Catholics don’t believe that Jesus now chairs one of the world’s largest is really present in the Eucharist. Catholic ministries, not only outlines The first two years focus on methods of study and praying with Scripture and a O’Malley offers a con- the challenges but also maps the path comprehensive study of major books of both the Old and New Testaments. The remaining cise introduction to Catholic forward in Everyone Leads. two years cover all other books of the Old and New Testaments (Catholic Bible). teaching on real presence and After a bracing review of transubstantiation through a the church’s global struggles There will be two locations available – the Catholic Center (Bridgeport) and another Lowney draws on two decades of biblical, theological, and spiritual satellite in Stamford. account of these doctrines from change-management experience to propose an “EASTeR” strategy of the early Church to today. He + September 11 – Orientation (evening) also explores how real presence five transformational principles: be entrepreneurial, be accountable, serve, + Thursday evenings beginning September 23 from 6:30 to 8:30pm enables us to see the vulnerability + Each year of the four-year program runs for 30 weeks. of human life and the dignity of transform, and reach out. These five all flesh and blood. ideas can catalyze profound change in every parish, in how bishops The cost is only $380, a bit more if you wish to take courses for college credit. Gather on your own or in your think, and in the roles laypeople play parish and be ready for a conver- in leading the church. Filled with sation with Tim on October 15, For more information, real-life examples, Everyone Leads email Dr. Patrick Donovan at 2021. To place an order for books outlines strategies that anyone can and the discussion guide, please employ to strengthen the church. [email protected] email [email protected]. As a former business executive 18 July/August 2021 Catholic Education Catholic Academy of Bridgeport receives $500,000 grant BRIDGEPORT—The Inner- shall be called “The Inner- City Foundation for supporting PICTURED (l-r): John Kreitler, board chair, Catholic Academy of Bridgeport; City Foundation for Charity & City Foundation for Charity & the work we are doing. This grant Pam Pagnani, board member, The Inner-City Foundation for Charity & Education recently approved a Education Scholars.” helps us make a Christ-centered, Education; Angela Pohlen, executive director, Catholic Academy of Bridgeport; Richard Matteis, board member, The Inner-City Foundation for Charity & grant request by the Catholic According to Angela Pohlen, academically rigorous education Education; and Dennis Boyd, treasurer, Catholic Academy of Bridgeport. Academy of Bridgeport for executive director of the Catholic available to as many students as $500,000 to assist students in Academy of Bridgeport, “We are possible regardless of their finan- need. Recipients of the funds extremely grateful to The Inner- cial circumstances.” Each year, the Catholic only 25 percent of BPS grads. Academy of Bridgeport educates According to Pohlen, “We St. Aloysius: 125 years from page 6 850 children in grades pre-K achieve better results with fewer to eighth on four campuses in resources. Where the state pays youth ministry and a semi-annual a lot of amazing things,” he says. coffee for people after Mass. We the city of Bridgeport. Eighty- over $14,000 to educate each Emmaus Retreat program. “They are important to the life of want a place where people will five percent of its families can- student to achieve their results, Students at St. Aloysius the Church in a culture that says feel comfortable and can pray the not afford the annual tuition it costs us a little over $7,000 to School, from kindergarten to people are moving away from reli- rosary and have outdoor prayer of $5,150 so the school must produce ours, and we get zero eighth grade, attend Mass regular- gion. Our community has shown services. It will also be available to annually award more than $2 money from the state. That’s ly and have opportunities to pray that you need a personal relation- the community if, say, they want million in need-based finan- why grants like the one from three times a day, he said. ship with Christ and a community a room for a meeting or just to sit cial assistance. One-hundred The Inner-City Foundation for “Our music program is amaz- relationship with people in prayer. outside and have lunch.” percent of CAB students go on Charity & Education make all ing, and there is a strong tradition We have to come together in This year, the St. Aloysius’ 125th to graduate from high school the difference to our success.” of good music thanks to Dr. John Eucharist. The Lord says to do this, anniversary feast was celebrated on versus only 70 percent of their Late in 2020, the Inner-City Michniewicz,” Father said. There and that’s what we do every day.” June 19 after the 5 pm Mass with Bridgeport Public School coun- Foundation announced that it are adult, youth and cherub choirs The parish recently embarked on Bishop Frank J. Caggiano, followed terparts, and 99 percent of would be dissolving after almost in addition to the StAY Teen a capital campaign, which it hopes by a procession and a parish party CAB alumni attend college or 30 years of supporting the needy Choir & Praise Band. will finance work on aging buildings with music and food. post-secondary school versus in Fairfield County. n The teen Mass typically attracts on the campus, more space for par- Marking the occasion, Father 600 people on Sunday at 5 pm, ish ministries, a larger indoor gath- Kinnally said in a message to his and members of the senior com- ering space and an outdoor area. faith community: “We give thanks Deceased Clergy of the Diocese munity often go because they are “It will be a re-imagining of our to God for 125 years of parish of Bridgeport August 1—September 4 energized by the young people, campus,” Father Kinnally says. family life under the patronage of Father says. There is also a 6:30 “We also want to put a cafe in Saint Aloysius Gonzaga. From August Year am Mass for teens once a month the middle of the campus, which moments of grace in the three dif- 1 Msgr. Daniel J. Foley...... 1999 at which they receive a takeaway will be managed throughout the ferent church buildings that have Msgr. John J. Toomey, P.A...... 1992 2 Rev. Patrick V. Lavery...... 1976 breakfast before heading to school. day so people can gather for cof- been our spiritual houses over a Msgr. James J. McLaughlin...... 1985 “We have a lot of folks who do fee and a light lunch and provide century and a quarter, we all have 3 Rev. Francis E. Fenton...... 1995 some treasured stories of countless 4 Msgr. Michael J. Guerin...... 1981 prayers said, thousands of can- Msgr. James F. Leary...... 1994 dles lit, hundreds of happy brides 5 Msgr. Joseph Kohut...... 2017 FUNERAL GUIDE and grooms walking down the 7 Rev. Thomas G. Keeney...... 1990 aisle, generations of babies being 9 Msgr. John J. Kennedy, P.A...... 1955 brought to the baptismal font, the Msgr. Frank C. Dellolio...... 1983 funeral rites for our dear ones, Msgr. Richard T. Scully...... 1988 school graduations, First Holy 10 Deacon William Rowe...... 2013 Harding Communions, Confirmations, a 14 Deacon Gerardo Ramos...... 2007 FUNERAL HOME First Mass or two, years and years 15 Msgr. Louis A. DeProfio, P.A...... 2018 of Christmas pageants, and the Msgr. Edward J. Duffy...... 1977 hundreds of thousands of Masses 16 Rev. Victor E. Piaskowski...... 1961 203.227.3458 NEIL F. HARDING that have been offered. 18 Rev. Alexander Z. Seregely...... 1971 [email protected] “More than anything, Saint 20 Rev. Louis Pintye, O.F.M...... 2017 JOHN J. HARDING www.hardingfuneral.com Aloysius Parish has been a place 21 Rev. John J. Dillon...... 1959 where generations have celebrated Msgr. Thomas P. Guinan...... 1998 the love of Christ that is made 22 Rev. Michael Fay...... 2009 210 POST ROAD EAST WESTPORT, CT 06881 present in a community…. One- 23 Msgr. Emilio C. Iasiello, P.A...... 1969 hundred and twenty-five years 24 Rev. Nicholas Calabro...... 2015 after the Vatican approved our 25 Rev. Richard Futie...... 2013 “Quiet Dignity Without Extravagance” 26 Rev. Msgr. Edward Scull...... 2016 desire to name the parish after Lawrence Cardinal Shehan...... 1984 Affordable Direct Cremation Aloysius Gonzaga, the young Title Welcome 28 Rev. Vincent E. Finn...... 1958 XIX Jesuit seminarian who gave his Rev. Edmund C. O’Connell...... 1973 life in service of the poor and the 29 Deacon Ramon Isidro...... 2006 sick, we pray that we will imitate Rev. Joseph Linck...... 2008 him in his desire to serve the Lord by serving one another. And then, September Year Z Family owned for three generations ZHandling every detail we pray that one day we will meet 2 Rev. Msgr. Francis J. Pranckus...... 2000 3 Rev. Msgr. John F. X. Walsh...... 1967 Z Call for free informative brochure Z In home arrangements all of the Saint Aloysius parishio- ners from 1896 and beyond in the Rev. Msgr. Thomas F. Henahan...... 1998 Z Z 4 Deacon Matthew Skurat...... 2013 203-254-1414 or 800-542-0218 Memorial service facility Kingdom of Heaven.” n 19 July/August 2021 Sports St. Joe’s, Notre Dame excel in return to diamond

By DON HARRISON Notre Dame posted 20 victories earned run average. She comple- and lost just three times—twice mented her mound work by bat- Relying on a veteran pow- to Masuk by identical 2-1 scores ting .450 and was selected to the er-hitting shortstop and a first- and to Coginchaug Regional of CHSCA All-State team. year pitcher, both St. Joseph Durham, 5-2, in the Class S state Her St. Joe’s counterpart, of Trumbull and Notre Dame- semi-finals. Coginchaug went Lauren Wasikowski, proved just Fairfield approached perfection on to capture the title by routing as invaluable. A transfer from during the much-anticipated 2021 defending champion Somers, 14-2. Lauralton Hall, Wasikowski high school softball season. The Lancers coach Jeff Bevino assembled a 19-2 won-lost record COVID-19 pandemic had forced a seemed pleased with the outcome. in her debut with the Cadets, one-year hiatus. “We came into the season with a fanned 234 batters in 135 innings St. Joe’s opened the spring with freshman pitcher (Judy Tarczali), and notched a 1.08 ERA. She, 16 straight victories en route to an and our only losses were to two too, was a lethal hitter, finishing impressive 19-2 record, bowing state champions,” he pointed out. with a .433 average and four only to Fairfield Ludlowe, 6-3, in Pitching with an upperclass- home runs. She was chosen to the FCIAC title game and unde- man’s poise, Tarczali won 20 both the CHSCA and GameTime feated Masuk of Monroe, 2-0, in games—12 by shutout—and lost All-State squads. the CIAC Class L state champion- thrice, striking out 223 batters in It may be difficult to believe, Mac Stone-Folmar Judy Tarczali ship game. 144 innings and compiling a 1.56 but as a senior, Notre Dame’s

Local Charity Announces $6 Million in Grant Awards Inner-City Foundation Awards 43 programs BRIDGEPORT—The Inner- City Foundation for Charity & Education will award $6 million in grants, the charity announced today, providing grants to 43 local Fairfield County programs. The charity announced its plans to dis- Lauren Wasikowski Maddy Fitzgerald solve and to distribute its consider- able assets earlier this year. MacQuarrie “Mac” Stone-Folmar The Cadets’ co-captain surpassed “We wish we could have surpassed her remarkable soph- the school’s single-season home gone back and given funds to omore season accomplishments. run record with 12, batted .468 everyone we have supported The Lancers’ All-State shortstop and drove in 35 runs. She was over the years—about 200 KOLBE CATHEDRAL High School celebrates receiving a scholarship and co-captain tied her own selected to the All-State teams for grantees over 30 years,” said endowment of $500,000 from The Inner-City Foundation for Charity & state record by walloping 19 the second time. Education. (l-r) Jane Lafond, rising Kolbe Cathedral High School senior; Dick Executive Director Karen Barry home runs, drove in 54 runs and “Maddy is an incredible student Schwarz, “but that was not feasi- Matteis, Board Member, The Inner-City Foundation for Charity & Education; Camille Figluizzi, Kolbe Cathedral Principal; Pam Pagnani, Board Member, increased her batting average to an of the game,” said St. Joe’s coach ble. We looked at those grantees The Inner-City Foundation for Charity & Education; Eudell Mason, rising unfathomable .728. Incredibly, she Jeff Babineau. “We’d lost a season that we regularly supported over Kolbe Cathedral High School senior. averaged one homer every 4.3 at to COVID-19, so as a co-captain the last 10 years or so and chose bats, and her slugging average was she had more kids—freshmen and carefully from a large group Foundation of Norwalk; Catholic Person; Sacred Heart University; in the stratosphere (1.691). sophomores—who’d never played of proposals. We’re delighted Shelter of the Cross/Renewal “She’s a high honors student, a game for us to mentor. It was a that our donors’ funds will be Academy of Bridgeport; Catholic Academy of Stamford; Catholic House; Shepherds; St. Catherine a great leader and a friend to all,” challenging year.” doing good in Fairfield County Charities of Fairfield County Center for Special Needs; St. Joseph Bevino said of Stone-Folmar, who Babineau also noted that, as for many years to come, and in Immigration Services; Catholic Parenting Center; Stamford Public will continue her softball career at a freshman, Fitzgerald was an some cases, in perpetuity.” Charities of Fairfield County Morning Education Foundation; Sterling Barry University in Florida. “In integral part of the Cadets’ 2018 The Fairfield County pro- Glory Kitchen; Center for Family House Community Center; Thomas the field, she makes plays that oth- Class M state championship team, grams that will each receive Justice; Circle of Care for Families Merton Center; Tiny Miracles ers just don’t get to. She leads by batting .449. a portion of the $6 million in of Children with Cancer; Domestic Foundation; Today’s Students example, with her work ethic, and Fitzgerald, who was also funds from The Inner-City Violence Crisis Center; Domus Tomorrow’s Teachers; Women’s she leads with her ability.” selected to the Coaches’ 2021 All- Foundation for Charity & Foundation; Emerge; Family ReEntry; Center of Greater Danbury. In just two high school seasons State Academic team, plans to Education in its dissolution Foundations in Education; Future For almost three decades, encompassing 50 games, Stone- continue playing softball at Bryant include the following: 5; HomeFront; Homes with Hope; The Inner-City Foundation, Folmar accumulated 38 homers University in Rhode Island. All Saints Catholic School; Inspirica; Junior Achievement of with your help, has helped and 111 RBIs, and her batting St. Joe’s was fortunate to have Bridgeport Caribe Youth Leaders; Greater Fairfield County; Kids in to feed the hungry, house the average was a surreal .618. a third CHSCA All-Stater on its Bridgeport Neighborhoods Together; Crisis; Kolbe Cathedral High School; homeless, and educate those Meanwhile, Madison “Maddy” roster this spring, too, in senior Bridgeport Rescue Mission; Building Malta House; Mercy Learning Center; living in poverty in Fairfield Fitzgerald completed her three- co-captain and outfielder Brittany One Community; Cardinal Shehan New Covenant Center; Open Door County, granting $38 million year career as St. Joe’s shortstop Mairano. Her .479 batting average Center; Caroline House; Carver Shelter; Pacific House; Person-to- n to 200 local programs. with another outstanding season. topped the Cadets. n 20 July/August 2021 Column: Thomas Hicks The Achilles Heel

struggles that divided the Church lasting and profound.” There are some laborious during the Reformation. Reading It can be pointed out that the and boring Biblical books one Potpourri the Scriptures was officially dis- Bible writers use few adjectives might rightly skip e.g., Leviticus, couraged in the post Tridentine era and fewer adverbs. They may have Numbers, Chronicles, Kings. By Thomas H. Hicks (Tridentine = the Council of Trent), attended a course in creative writing. We Catholics are beginning mainly owing to the emphasis One can come up with a provoc- to again become, in some small given to Scripture by the Reformers ative list of questions from the Bible: ways, a Biblical people. A poor – Sola Scriptura. In 1692, a reli- Mt.16:26: “What does a man Bible Study can be worse than none Thomas Hicks is a member gious author named Pasquier profit if he gains the whole world at all. It is sadly true that most Quesnel published a book in which and suffers the loss of his soul? Catholics still have scarcely more of St. Theresa Parish in Trumbull. he asserted that “the reading of Gen.4:9: “Am I my brother’s than a passing acquaintance with Sacred Scripture is for everyone.” keeper? the Bible. One can be surprised to That comment was condemned Jn.3:4: “How can a man be born learn that well-educated people are hen I found They have little more than a nod- as an error by Pope Clement again when he is old? not generally acquainted with even your words, ding acquaintance with most of XI (Constitution Unigenitus Deo Jn.18:38: “What is truth” the most famous Bible stories. I devoured the Bible. It is the Achilles heel of Filius). The Church was worried Eccl.1:3: “What does a man A Biblical scholar, Daniel “Wthem; they Catholicism; it is the Achilles heel about Bible Texts being used by gain by all the toil at which he toils Harrington, wrote: “I find God became my joy and the happiness of evangelization. “heretics.” Most Catholics simply under the sun? largely in and through the Bible. It of my heart” (Jeremiah 15:16) For Catholics, the Scriptures stopped reading the Bible. On the Lk.10:29: “Who is my neighbor? is for me the most important way to Catholics as a whole have a were a heritage and treasure that other hand. Martin Luther told his Lk.10:25: “What must I do to know, love, and serve God.” Many general ignorance of the Bible. was left in the shadows after the followers to “think of the Scriptures inherit eternal life? of my own happiest personal expe- as the richest of mines which can A college student wrote this: “My riences have taken place in the aca- never be sufficiently explored.” college roommate, Nadine, was a demic study of the Bible. The Bible From the point of view of Pentecostal. She studied her Bible for never grows wearisome or stale for CATHOLIC Protestants, one of the great an hour faithfully every night after me. Like Harrington, I find God achievements of the 16th centu- classes and before tackling her other largely in and through the Bible. PROFESSIONAL ry Reformation was that it put assignments. I marveled at her fidel- We cannot conduct evange- NETWORK the Bible back into the hands of ity to a Book I, a Catholic with 12 lization well without studying God’s people. The Bible came to years of parochial school behind me, the Bible. There’s a saying by St. be considered a Protestant book. has never opened.” Jerome: “A person who is well Magtype Among Catholics, the Catechism The Word of God is often grounded in Scripture is a bulwark 203.377.7908 Computer magtype.com came to be substituted for the Bible. self-explanatory. However, parts of the church.” Resources Catholics were actually discouraged of Scripture require interpretation. St. Augustine insisted that sanc- from reading the Bible. There’s often some necessary spade- tity involved “soaking yourself in Working from Home Vatican II called for a return to work. Biblical scholarship helps with Scripture.” the Scriptures. It called for Scripture a mature and profound encounter Thus, many take the view that Remote Learning to play a central role in Catholic with the Bible. Pope Benedict XVI the church needs a massive Bible spirituality, indeed. to be the prima- stated that he wanted us to do more education program, and Bible study How is that going? ry source of Catholic spirituality. than read the Scriptures. He wanted should be at the center of what we IT SUPPORT • NETWORKING • WEB DESIGN It stated that Bible study leads to us to study them, to wrestle with do in our parishes. a deeper and more mature spiri- them. We may commit ourselves to (Mr. Hicks conducts two Zoom Bible PROGRAMMING • MAC & PC COMPUTER SUPPORT tuality. The Council spoke of the sustained study of a particular book, Studies. One meets on the second Tuesday Scriptures as “the food of the soul,” indeed, spend months with a partic- of the month from 10 am-Noon. The and called upon Catholic peoples to ular book. There’s the proverb “he other meets on the second Thursday of become “gluttons” for Scripture.” who desires to eat the kernel must the month from 7-8:30 pm. For informa- (Dei Verbum Constitution on break the shell.” These days we can tion email your name to Thicks@snet. Divine Revelation). study with the resources of modern net. The group doesn’t meet during July RESIDENTIAL EMERGENCY DRAIN CLEANING I love so much of the language scholarship which enriches and clari- and August. You will hear from us the in the Bible, its literary power. The fies. It calls for taking some time and first week of September. We are presently MUNICIPAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL American author, discipline. studying “The Book of Job.”) n 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE • LICENSED & INSURED Thomas Wolfe, author of novels 377-8704 • TV PIPE INSPECTION such as You Can’t Go Home Again, t aul from page • CATCH BASIN CLEANING or • AIR TESTING S . P 6 • HIGH VELOCITY WATER JETTING • JET RODDING and Of Time and the River, wrote • LARGE DIAMETER POWER RODDING 1-800-422-3724 • VACTOR SERVICE with the Church at the Easter Vigil. Office: 534 Surf Avenue • Stratford this about the Book of Ecclesiastes: “For all that I have ever seen or “I am drawn to evangelizing, and there is nothing I love more learned that book (Ecclesiastes) than to share the truth and beauty of the Catholic faith with adults seems to me the noblest, the wis- and help them come to know and love Jesus Christ, especially in Law Office of James M. Hughes est, and most powerful expression the Eucharist,” she says. “At St. Paul, this takes the form of helping with the RCIA program. When Father Les came to our parish in the Elder Law/TITLE 19/MEDICAID-Planning of man’s life upon this earth, also earth’s highest flowering of poetry, fall of 2015, he asked me to be the director of RCIA.” Veteran’s Benefits - “Aid & Attendance” eloquence, and truth. I am not Hope says, “Being part of the parish has affected my spiritual life Estates/Probate/Real Estate given to dogmatic judgments in in many ways over these last twenty years. Initially, the parish was the matter of literary creation, but a place where we would go to worship as a family on Sundays and where my children would receive their sacraments. Over time, as 1432 Post Road, Fairfield, Connecticut 06824 if I had to make one, I could only say that Ecclesiastes is the greatest our six children grew and matured, I was able to go from just par- 203.256.1977 — [email protected] single piece of writing I have ever ticipating in Sunday Mass to being able to attend daily Mass, and to www.fairfieldctelderlaw.com known. The wisdom in it the most finally being able share the faith with others through RCIA.” n 21 July/August 2021 Tribunal: Code of Canon Law Interview with Father Mollenhauer, Judicial Vicar Editor’s Note: In this interview Brian Wallace: That’s quite Brian Wallace: Is there cation. The newly revised Book Father Art Mollenhauer, Judicial exhaustive. Can you tell us who anything else that you think is VI is a step in this renewal. Vicar and Director of the Diocesan this affects? important to call our attention to? Tribunal, disscussed important Of course, if anyone is inter- changes to the Code of Canon Law Father Mollenhauer: Well, Father Mollenhauer: I ested in knowing more about this regarding grave offenses. In partic- there is another twist to the new think most canonists agree that topic, the Vatican website has the ular, he discusses the newly revised Book VI. Whereas some offens- the changes and additions to recent news. There, one can find Book VI dealing offenses (crimes) es were only punishable if they Book VI are something that the the Vatican press conference and and punishments in the Church. It were committed by clerics, they Church has needed for some the new Book VI. There is also a will be promulaged in December of are now punishable also when time now and they have been link to this news on the Tribunal this year. committed by non-clerics. This warmly welcomed. They come of Bridgeport webpage: www. means that laypersons are also at a moment of renewal. The dob-tribunal.com. By BRIAN D. WALLACE subject to punishment when they Church learns from its errors (Father Mollenhauer is the commit certain grave offenses and mistakes and is also in a judicial vicar for the diocese since Brian Wallace: Father, I Father Art Mollenhauer detailed in Book VI from the six process of conversion and purifi- February 2019.) n understand that there have been categories that I mentioned pre- some recent changes to the Code care with Christian Charity, its viously. of Canon Law. example of living, its advice and exhortation and -if need be- by Brian Wallace: What are Father Mollenhauer: Yes, the imposition of punishments. some of the differences from the Brian. In June, the Holy Father The imposition of punishments old Book VI? mandated the publication of the is done so in so far as they are newly revised Book VI of the really necessary for the better Father Mollenhauer: One Code of Canon Law. The Code maintenance of ecclesiastical of the major updates is in the is made up of seven books. Book discipline and it has in mind the area of offenses against Church VI deals with offenses (crimes) restoration of justice, the reform authorities and in the exercise and corresponding punishments of the offender and the repair of duties. As an example, some in the Catholic Church. For the of any scandal. The bishops of dioceses, parishes or Church past twelve years, an appointed the Church, as successors of the communities have been adverse- committee has been reviewing Apostles, have a special mis- ly affected by persons in author- and updating this book. There sion to foster communion and ity who have been accused of has been a general reordering uphold justice in the communities economic malfeasance. The new of the canons in this book as entrusted to them by the Holy provisions of the Code deter- well as an update of many of Father. mine that those (laypersons as the determined offenses and The second thing to keep well as clerics) guilty of stealing punishment for those offenses. in mind is that the new Book ecclesiastical goods or prevents This newly promulgated book VI describes the nature of the proceeds from being received will become law on December different types of penalties and are to be punished. Or persons 8, 2021. punishments that exist in the who unlawfully sell ecclesiastical Church. Book VI also explains goods are to be punished. Proud printers of Brian Wallace: What does how these penalties and pun- Another example would be this mean practically for the ishments are applied to the that a person who exercises an Fairfield County Catholic Church? guilty. office in the name of the Church Thirdly, Book VI organizes who requests an offering beyond Father Mollenhauer: What succinctly the serious offenses in what is lawfully established, or this means for the Church is the Church according to some additional sums, or something that what was previously in the important categories. Those cat- for his or her own benefit is to be Code is now superseded by the egories are: (1) offenses against punished. provisions of the new canons. the faith an unity of the Church, A final example would be that Therefore, the new provisions (2) offenses against Church someone who abuses ecclesias- will be the governing law for authorities and in the exercise of tical power, or the power of an Please contact us for a FREE consultation, the whole Church regarding duties, (3) offenses against the office or the power of a function print samples & quote. We also offer the defined offenses in the new sacraments, (4) offenses against (official assigned responsibility) a simple online quote request form. Book VI. reputation and the offense of is to be punished according to falsehood, (5) offenses against the gravity of their act. This also Brian Wallace: Can you brief- special obligations; and, finally, applies to someone’s culpable ly explain some of the important (6) offenses against human life, negligence. 205 Spring Hill Road, Trumbull CT 06611 changes that Book VI has under- dignity and liberty. There are other updates as gone? Finally, one of the novelties well. As I mentioned previously, 203.261.2548 of the new Book VI is that—in there are many grave offenses www.TrumbullPrinting.com Father Mollenhauer: Sure. some cases—where the applica- that will demand closer attention The first thing I would highlight tion of penalties and punishments on behalf of the bishops; they will is that the new Book VI defines were left to the discretion of the be required to investigate credible Newspapers • Publications • Shoppers • Catalogs • Magazines • Directories the mission of the Church in safe- disciplining authority, they now accusations that surface regarding Coupon Books • College Course Catalogs • Free Standing Inserts guarding and promoting the good become compulsory. A number these grave offenses and punish Business and Financial Periodicals • Advertising Supplements of the community. The Church of serious offenses must be pun- them if a person is found guilty of does this through its pastoral ished by law. infraction of the law. 22 July/August 2021 Nuestra Voz San Pedro se prepara para recibir el voto latino

Por MARICARMEN GODOY preocupaba la ausencia del voto porque estas comunidades se han hispano y brasileño en el Consejo multiplicado significativamente DANBURY—Desde 1974 Parroquial, la máxima autoridad y obviamente estas decisiones les la parroquia de Saint Peter (San de la iglesia, porque son ellos afecta directamente. Pedro) ubicada en el pleno centro quienes toman las decisiones El padre Greg Mecca aseveró de la ciudad, no ha cambiado sus estatutos ni su Constitución, por laws) inició en marzo de este mente está en nuestra comunidad lo que en el Consejo Parroquial año y que era necesario revisar hispana”, repuso Geovanny no podían ejercer el voto las la Constitución de la Diócesis Chalco, miembro al Consejo en minorías étnicas representadas para poder realizar la enmienda representación de la comunidad por la comunidad hispana ni tam- correspondiente para que dos de hispana, quien cree que por ser poco Brasil; aunque si participar los parroquianos de las minorías nuestra “comunidad invitada”, con sus opiniones. Razón por la no solo se sienten en la silla del no se ha podido cristalizar el voto que por meses se vienen realizan- Consejo, sino que voten. hispano años atrás. do la redacción de la enmienda “No es potestad de la Diócesis A esto, el P. Greg respondió a la ley que será sumitida a la el voto hispano. La parroquia que la “comunidad hispana no es parroquia en octubre a su consid- tiene autonomía y por eso decid- invitada, que sus miembros están eración y en abril del 2022 entrar imos empezar este proceso”, dijo inscritos y son activos dentro en vigencia. al cuestionarlo si es que era nece- de la parroquia y que por tanto El Padre Greg Mecca, pár- sario la presencia del P. Arthur nunca han sido considerados roco de la iglesia de San Pedro Crosby Mollenhauer, encargado invitados. Lo que ha sucedido es desde hace 13 años, en una de cada paso tanto eclesiástico que el trabajo de preparar la de los asuntos legales eclesiásticos que había que cambiar la ley y entrevista especial contó que le como administrativo y sobretodo revisión de los estatutos (by de la Diócesis de Bridgeport, a eso estamos haciendo”, dijo. la que pertenece la iglesia de San En cuanto a la celebración de Pedro. los bautizos, el P. Greg reconoció En las próximas semanas la que hay muchas familias que parroquia entrará en la revisión cambian la fecha del sacramento de la última redacción de los debido a que esperan por sus estatutos, luego, éstos serán tra- familiares que vienen a la cele- ducidos al inglés y portugués para bración de otros países. “Muchos ser entregados a todos los fieles eligen de padrinos a familiares para que ellos realicen las revi- que residen en otras partes y por siones y cambios pertinentes, el asuntos de visa o pasaporte hay tiempo prudente de las revisiones cambios constantes de las fechas, durará el mes de octubre e inicios pero es mi deber apoyarlos, así de noviembre. es que cambiamos la fecha. Eso En febrero del 2022 se pro- significa que los padres de los cederá a convocar a elecciones niños bautizados son inmigrantes para el Consejo Parroquial y la y que los niños son de primera comunidad hispana deberá ele- generación”, sostuvo. Así lo gir a varios líderes para las elec- afirmó también Dago Cardona, ciones primarias, pero, previa- maestro de la clase de Bautismo, mente los candidatos entregarán quien es nativo de Guatemala una biografía y una fotografía y recibió el entrenamiento para para que los parroquianos los poder dictar esta clase en la igle- conozcan. sia Nuestra Señora de Montserrat Con el candidato electo, el en Stamford. Consejo tomará posesión e inicia- La mayor parte de miembros rá el trabajo en pleno. Plan que se de la parroquia son inmigrantes tiene previsto para entrado el mes venidos de Ecuador, luego Brasil, de marzo. seguidos por México, República Acorde con el registro parro- Dominicana, Colombia, quial, existen inscritos más de Guatemala y Perú. 900 familias en la parroquia de El reto de la iglesia de San San Pedro, de ellas, 400 son de Pedro este año es contar con un origen hispano y se estima que nuevo sacerdote a tiempo com- asisten regularmente entre mil a pleto debido a que el P. Bernardo 1200 personas de origen hispano Rodríguez, que atendía a la a la iglesia. De ese número hay comunidad hispana murió a con- 400 niños inscritos en el catecis- secuencia del COVID 19. mo que iniciará en septiembre de Si usted vive en Danbury y este año y de ellos, 200 son niños quiere ser parte de la parroquia hispanos. San Pedro puede llamar al (203) “Con esos datos, el futuro real- 743-1048. n 23 July/August 2021 Vocations New director of Campus Ministry BRIDGEPORT— Bishop the faith community, appropri- “I am incredibly excited to an exciting challenge to work Frank J. Caggiano recent- ates the faith, forms Christian return to one of my first passions, with different parishes and the ly announced that Father conscience, facilitates personal working with college students, university communities to build Christopher Ford has been named development, develops Catholic to begin this new ministry in our this ministry, but one that I really director of Campus Ministry for student leadership, and promotes diocese,” said Father Ford. “We feel immensely worth it. We have the Diocese of Bridgeport. vocations. By establishing relation- have had great opportunities to such a great opportunity before Father Chris Ford The focus of this position is to ships with key stakeholders, fos- support our Catholic students us to help more and more young create a comprehensive plan to tering the presence of the Church at WestConn, and it couldn’t people encounter Jesus Christ, so I am both humbled and grateful provide effective, ongoing oppor- in the campus environment, and be more important to find ways they can really come to know that to Bishop Caggiano for develop- tunities for Catholic formation increasing collaboration between to do the same at all of the col- He is the one who will fulfill the ing this vision and inviting me to for all college-age students who the college communities and local leges in the diocese. It will be deepest desires of their hearts and be a part of it.” n are enrolled in all the secular parishes, this pastoral vision will universities and colleges located ensure that the faith-based needs throughout our diocese. of all Catholic students pursuing Father Ford has a background post-secondary education within working in student affairs, having the Diocese of Bridgeport are met. Shehan Center to establish spent two years as a residence Father Ford will remain in hall director at Westminster his position of coordinator of the College in New Wilmington, Vocations Team, in addition to Trish Migliore Award Penn., immediately before he this new set of responsibilities. Center will honor Trish entered seminary. “I wish to express my sincere On September 21st, the by presenting her with the Father Ford will develop and thanks to Father Ford for his will- Cardinal Shehan Center Commitment Award post-hu- implement a vision of comprehen- ingness to assume this new evan- will hold its 18th Annual mously. sive campus ministry that forms gelical outreach,” said the bishop. Women’s Golf Classic. The event will be held at She had a long career as Racebrook Country Club a corporate attorney in New in Orange on Tuesday, York City at Vedder, Price, September 21st. Kaufman & Kammholz, P.C. Since it begin in 2003, the and was General Counsel Special Prayer golf classic has catered to the of Nine West Holdings and growing interest among pro- Jones Apparel Group. Trish Service set for fessional and philanthropic also served as a member of women to support causes such the Diocesan Finance Council as the Shehan Center and also for over three years. “Trish victims of abuse engage together on the golf (l-r) Trish Migliore, Cathy Porter, was a valued volunteer on our course. All are welcome to Anne McCrory and Alice McCrory. Finance Council and we were BROOKFIELD—A special prayer service for family mem- participate as the event also all so pained by her untimely bers and friends of victims of child sexual abuse by clergy and provides a “lunch and learn” to play with her.” death. However, honoring her by others will be held at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Church, 138 division for newcomers to the Sadly, Trish passed away last legacy with this award rooted Candlewood Lake Rd. in Brookfield on Friday, August 27, 6:30 sport. Supported by corporate year from a sudden illness, less in Commitment is a wonderful pm. The prayer service is being coordinated by family mem- sponsorships and generous than a year after her retirement. way to celebrate her legacy” bers of victims together with a community of survivors and the participants, the event supports Her family and friends have been said Bishop Caggiano. Office of Safe Environments of the Diocese of Bridgeport. Father the educational and recreation- devastated by her loss. Trish was Lorraine Gibbons, the Shawn Jordan, Father Larry Carew and Deacon Joseph Cann al programs that the Shehan a dedicated professional, volun- Executive Director of the will lead the prayer service. Center provides to the inner teer, wife, mother, daughter, writ- Cardinal Shehan Center, The service is open to family members of victims and all those city youth in Bridgeport. er and friend to all. “We all miss echoed the praise of Trish and who have been impacted by sexual abuse as a minor by clergy This year, the event will her contagious laugh and wise her commitment. “Trish was and by others. Our community of family members is called introduce the Trish Lind counsel. She was a very special a long time supporter of our HUGS which stands for Hope Understanding Guidance and Migliore Commitment Award. person, totally committed to all work and mission. We are Support. One of the participants in this that she did. Being with her was pleased to not only recognize We recognize that many victims have not survived and the event for nearly every year a pleasure,” shared Cathy Porter, her, but also create a founda- family members and friends who loved them are forever impact- since its inception was Trish another close friend and part of tion on which we can celebrate ed. We welcome anyone who has lost a loved one who was Lind Migliore. Trish, a resi- the Classic foursome. and recognize others who have sexually abused to join us, you are not alone. Counselors, clergy, dent of Fairfield and parish- For this reason, the Shehan been so dedicated to our work family members and survivors are available to meet with you ioner at St Thomas Aquinas, Center Women’s Golf Classic and mission.” immediately following. typically joined her close Committee and the Board of Located in the heart of If you can’t make the service, please still feel free to still join friends for the classic each Directors have established the Bridgeport, the Shehan Center us at 7:15 pm for a HUGS support group meeting for family year. The day became a tradi- Trish Lind Migliore Commitment serves the educational, recre- members. Join in our conversation or just be present with us and tion for them. “We may not Award in her honor. Each year, ational, cultural, and social enjoy some light refreshments around the kitchen table. have won the event, but I am the Committee and Board of the needs of moderate and low-in- (For more information or to learn about the victim assistance pro- pretty sure we had the most Shehan Center will nominate an come children and families. gram or to report sexual abuse of a minor or a vulnerable adult by any fun!” said Anne McCrory. individual that has demonstrat- (Details on participating in, person from the Church, please contact Erin Neil., L.C.S.W, Victim “Trish was supportive of the ed outstanding and continued attending or sponsoring the Golf Assistance Coordinator at office: 203.416.1406 mobile: 203.650.3265 mission of the Center and so commitment to the mission of Classic or the Awards dinner on or email: [email protected]; or Michael Tintrup, L.C.S.W., Victim generous in spirit, she helped the Cardinal Shehan Center. In September 21st can be found at Assistance Counselor 203.241.0987 or email: [email protected]. The make the day a special one for its first year, on September 21st, www.shehan center.org or by call- State of CT Child Abuse Care-line is 1.800.842.2288.) n anyone who was lucky enough at the Golf Classic, the Shehan ing 203.336.4468.) n Ballpark or dog park.

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“Catholic cemeteries are about remembrance and hon- oring the wishes of the Church and of family members. We are committed to providing cemetery property for the sacred religious function of burial. We are also committed to preserving these resting places as beautiful and reflective spaces that celebrate life and the gift of our faith.” Dean Gestal Director of Cemeteries

We are pleased to provide this Catholic Cemeteries resource guide to our readers. You will find useful information on the location of Catholic Cemeteries through- out Fairfield County, updates on Catholic Funeral Norms and burial options, profiles of staff and directors, and key contact infor- mation to help you find answers to your questions and make your own plans. We encourage you to review this information and consider the importance of pre-need planning, which ensures a Catholic burial and provides peace of mind for you and your family. If you have any questions, please call one of the family advisors listed in this guide.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

27 28 30 32 34- 38- 40- 42 44- 50 51 52 35 39 41 48 Tradition Family Catholic Leaving Saint Meet Historic Visitor Funeral Planning Important Cemetery and a Advisors Cemetery a Legacy Catherine the Diocesan Honors Home a Catholic Questions Locations, Vision Play Leadership Through of Team! Cemeteries her Guide Funeral and Useful Maps, for the a Key Planned Siena Parents Information Contacts Future Role Giving Mausoleum Memory

26 July 2021 Catholic Cemeteries Cemeteries transition to new governance model

By BRIAN D. WALLACE Up until this point the cem- eteries have been managed as BRIDGEPORT—Bishop an operating unit under the Frank J. Caggiano has issued a Corporation of the Diocese of decree formally creating a new Bridgeport. The new model is management and governance consistent with the governance structure for diocesan cemeteries. structure of diocesan schools, Under the decree issued on Catholic Charities, foundations March 25, the cemeteries will and other operations. transition to a limited liability “As the business of the cem- company with an independent eteries has grown and become board of directors within the more complex, the Diocesan Corporation of the Diocese of Finance Council has been consid- Bridgeport. ering the way to best manage the The diocese maintains 14 cem- finances and the management of eteries in Fairfield County. The the diocesan cemeteries in a more largest and most active include responsible and transparent way St. Michael in Bridgeport, St. in order to conform to the best Mary-Putnam in Greenwich, administrative practices,” Bishop St. John in Darien, St. John-St. Caggiano said. Mary in Norwalk, Assumption The bishop said he is grateful “After much deliberation, the Corporation of the Diocese of For Gestal, who retired after Greens Farms in Westport, Gate to the Diocesan Finance Council, Diocesan Finance Council has Bridgeport,” the bishop said. a successful finance career, the of Heaven in Trumbull, Catholic Cemeteries management recommended to me that the best The new structure will cemeteries are a ministry that Resurrection in Newtown, Queen and the diocesan finance office way to structure the cemeteries improve the stewardship of the supports “the sacred religious of Peace in Stamford and St. for their efforts to prepare for and would be the creation of a limit- cemeteries, bring in additional function of Catholic burial, while Peter in Danbury. structure the transition. ed liability company within the resources and further engage the reaching out to families by build- talents of the laity who as board ing a closer relationship with our members will bring consider- parishes.” able business and management He said that at a time of great experience to decisions about change in society, including buri- planning for the future, he said. al practices, Catholic cemeteries In accordance with Canon can play an even more important Law, the bishop will be the role in memorializing loved ones, administrator of this juridic bringing families together and person. Under civil law, gov- reaffirming the importance of erned by Connecticut Statute Christian burial. Section 34, the bishop will be Catholic cemeteries offer the appointed manager of the many options and services includ- limited liability company and as ing estate lots to accommodate manager, he will appoint a board current and future generations of of directors who will manage the same family, special areas on and oversee the operations of the which to construct family mau- cemeteries. soleums, entombment in com- The membership of the board munity mausoleums and memo- of directors will be announced as rial design services. For those the diocese finalizes the transition thinking of cremation, cremation to the new governance model. graves and columbarium niches The Finance Council agreed are available to accommodate to the proposed creation of this the reverent disposition that the juridic person unanimously at Church desires a special meeting on March 12, Gestal encourages people to 2021, and the diocesan College of consider “pre-need” planning for Consultors also gave its approval themselves and their loved ones, on March 17, 2021. so that decisions do not have to Dean Gestal, director of be made when they are dealing Catholic Cemeteries, said that with loss and emotional stress. the new management structure Pre-planning also gives fami- represents a new era that will lies more time to visit and select strengthen the mission and a cemetery, meet with cemetery ministry of Catholic cemeter- representatives and review the ies and hopefully will lead to many burial options available to expanded beautification projects them. and improvements, a higher (For further information about the level of services including newly Catholic Cemeteries of the Diocese of hired counselors to guide people Bridgeport, visit the website: www.bridge- through the process, and more portdiocese.org/cemeteries/home or by burial options for families. phone at: 203.742.1450, option 5.) n 27 July 2021 Catholic Cemeteries Tradition and a vision for the future

By JOE PISANI Dean Gestal, director of Catholic Gestal’s vision has energized the Putnam Cemetery in Greenwich Cemeteries, who says, “At the organization. As a result, there has has applied for designation as an TRUMBULL—Even though Catholic Cemeteries of the Diocese been a series of new operational arboretum because of the more Joe McCurdy is in charge of of Bridgeport, we are committed procedures that have improved than 100 species of trees that the upkeep and appearance of to providing cemetery property the locations along with hiring of can be found there, which have Joe McCurdy Catholic cemeteries at 14 loca- for the sacred religious function of additional family advisers who are been tagged and identified with tions throughout the Diocese of burial. We are also committed to available to counsel families at six plaques that provide their Latin built with state-of-the-art decora- Bridgeport, one thing he never preserving these resting places as a cemetery offices. names. Walking tours are also tive designs, McCurdy said. In forgets is that what he and his symbol of our Catholic belief.” Landscaping was outsourced being scheduled. the new St. Catherine Mausoleum colleagues do is a ministry. At those locations, McCurdy to a Fortune 500 company, and There is a regular tree mainte- at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Under his direction are nine says there has been an ambitious the cemeteries are cut every nance program in place. If a tree is Trumbull, for example, there will family advisors responsible for program of rejuvenation and cap- week. There are dozens of recent- dead and must be removed, a chain- be two rooms with glass-front bereavement counseling and ital improvements in recent years, ly completed projects, including saw artist will come in and create a niches that allow the family to helping the families of those who which included the complete reno- the cleanup and beautification of 10-foot high carving of a woodland include meaningful mementoes have died make some of life’s vation of the cemetery offices and maintenance areas, replacement creature, such as an eagle. of the deceased, whether they be most important decisions for their 11 mausoleums, new internal com- of water lines to improve drain- Because of the growing pop- a pair of knitting needles, reading departed loved ones. munications technology, the devel- age, the installation of several ularity of cremation, Catholic glasses or rosary beads, so a loved “You really have to be on your opment of a special cemetery soft- miles of ornamental decorative Cemeteries has also created one can be memorialized in a very toes, and you can never forget ware program and data warehouse, fence and the acquisition of nine cremation gardens at some personal way. that this is a ministry, and you and outreach to parishes to educate marble religious statues. locations. They are semicircle “We’ve been getting a very always have to do the right thing parishioners about the burial/cem- One goal is to make the cem- half-moon designs that have good response to some of the to help out families and offer etery options and the importance of eteries a friendly environment rock walls where a plaque with innovative things that we have people the best that you can,” “pre-need” planning. that is welcoming to the com- the deceased’s name appears been doing,” McCurdy says. says McCurdy, who is director of McCurdy, who has worked munity, joggers, dog walkers, above the urn that is placed in an “We want to provide charitable, Sales and Marketing. with Catholic cemeteries for nature lovers and history enthu- in-ground vault. religious cemeteries for the entire It is a sentiment echoed by almost four years, said that siasts. For example, St. Mary/ More columbaria are being faith community.” n 28 July 2021 Playing a Key Role Cemeteries announces new team of family advisors BRIDGEPORT—Catholic for the Atlanta Symphony to vice experience, 13 of them trad- Cemeteries has a staff of nine owning a resume writing and job ing in financial markets, funding Family Advisors assigned to serve interview coaching business. As a start-up companies and a local at six cemetery office locations lay Dominican, she has a fervent family farm. Caring for his own throughout Fairfield County. desire to serve in the Catholic beloved grandparents in their “The staff is prepared to work tradition. With an MBA in mar- final days gave him an insight with grieving families and to keting, she looks forward to edu- into the importance of counseling reach out to others interested in cating families about the values and planning. As a way of giving advance, pre-need planning,” and benefits of burial in one of back, he answered a job posting said Dean Gestal, Director of for a cemetery counselor to help Catholic Cemeteries. “They are people who were going through people of great faith and com- passion who are eager to serve and to offer guidance.” Kevin Nizolek Patti Barrientos Gestal said the team will advise and assist families with immedi- cemetery and funeral services. to Norwalk, where she and her ate (at-need) decisions and future This level of leadership and family have been residents for (pre-need) planning. They work expertise has allowed him to more than 16 years. Patti and in unison with funeral homes to forge and nurture strong industry her husband, William, have two ensure a smooth and respectful relationships, including social and daughters, Jessica 18 and Brianna interment/entombment process for community alliances. Kevin takes 16. Patti served in the Army and families. Advisers are also onboard great pride in helping families speaks fluent Spanish. She and her to help families with the memorial- create their personal family lega- family are parishioners at St. Mary Melanie Szlucha ization of their loved ones through cy, establishing a place of remem- of Stamford Parish, where she and upright/flush monuments. brance for future generations. He her husband are lectors and their Ed Tamimi “They are a compassionate has a natural gift of cultivating the beautiful diocesan cemeteries. daughters are altar servers. physical presence on the cemetery a comfortable environment for Rosemary Harrigan, a senior Johannes Garcia serves in grounds to field questions from fam- grieving families and profes- adviser, represents the cemeteries the office at St. Peter Cemetery similar circumstances. Ed and ilies, give tours and handle the myri- sionally guide them through the in Darien, Stamford, Norwalk in Danbury. For more than his family are parishioners of St. ad of daily issues,” said Gestal. burial, entombment and memori- and Westport. Rosemary graduat- 15 years, Johannes has helped Lawrence Parish in Shelton. Kevin Nizolek, a senior alization processes. ed from Sacred Heart University families obtain their Right of Catherine Fraleigh is an adviser, represents St. Mary/ Melanie Szlucha serves in the with a bachelor’s degree in busi- Interment in the Archdiocese of adviser at St. Michael Cemetery Putnam Cemetery in Greenwich Greenwich office. Her profession- ness management and worked at Newark, New Jersey Catholic in Stratford. A recent graduate of with more than 30 years of expe- al career has encompassed every- her family’s commercial printing Cemeteries. His background Lincoln College of New England rience directing all aspects of thing from season tickets director company for many years. She with a degree in Funeral Service transitioned into her current role Sciences, she has served in various several years ago after working funeral homes across the state and in the parish office of St. Joseph has counseled families in the diffi- cult decision-making for “at need” cemetery arrangements. During her downtime, she enjoys creating artwork, which she applies to the

Johannes Garcia

skills as a chemical engineer and financial professional allowed Rosemary Harrigan him to help individual investors and businesses create financial Church. Rosemary finds being deals. During this time, Johannes an adviser extremely rewarding felt God calling him in a different Catherine Fraleigh and fulfilling, knowing that she direction to serve him in ministry. has helped a grieving family or The pandemic made him realize assisted in establishing a legacy that everyone’s journey on Earth Cemeteries’ monuments and is for a family. is unique and God asks us to use an avid genealogist. She enjoys Patti Barrientos, a senior our talents wisely. working with the people in the adviser, represents St. John/St. Ed Tamimi, a senior advis- Stratford community and educat- Mary Cemeteries in Norwalk, St. er, represents Gate of Heaven ing them in the importance of pre- John in Darien and Assumption Cemetery in Trumbull and need funeral planning. Green Farms in Westport. She Resurrection Cemetery in Kathleen Kwiatkowski is was born in Colombia and raised Newtown. He has more than 20 an administrative assistant at in Stamford and later moved years of sales and customer ser- ➤ continued on page 29 29 July 2021 Family Advisors

Cemeteries Announces from page 28 military. Joe is a parishioner at St.Theresa Church in Trumbull St. John Cemetery office in Ed, are the parents of two adult and looks forward to present- Darien. She brings a great deal children and parishioners of St. ing the St. Catherine of Siena of professional experience to her Aloysius Parish. Mausoleum at Gate of Heaven to role, having worked at Omega Kara Clegg serves as an his fellow parishioners. “I truly Engineering for more than 30 administrative assistant for Gate believe that God has a plan for all of Heaven Cemetery in Trumbull of us. People who follow the Lord and St. Michael Cemetery in and pray regularly become better Joe Nemchek Bob Ross Stratford. A native of Boston, and better at reading his signs,” Kara maintains a weekly burial orders for power washing of mon- he says. “The opportunity to work manager/sales specialist at uments, creates and maintains for the Diocese of Bridgeport Hewlett Packard for more than promotional materials and just was a case of divine intervention 30 years before joining Catholic about anything else that crosses in my life. I lost my convention Cemeteries as a family adviser. her desk. Kara was the director of management position due to While at Hewlett Packard, Bob religious education at St. Pius X the pandemic, and the Catholic managed accounts ranging in size Parish in Fairfield, where she is a Cemeteries ministry opportunity from small/medium businesses to parishioner before accepting this presented itself at the right time large global accounts. position. Kara, a mother of two, soon after. There is a certain Bob sees his role at Catholic was a pastry chef and still loves indescribable satisfaction you feel Cemeteries as a ministry of transi- when you help reunite someone tion—to help the deceased transi- Kathleen Kwiatkowski to cook and bake. Joe Nemchek has more than with a deceased loved one or help tion to the next life and to help the 20 years of trade show sales and provide closure for a family. Any living family members transition years in management for cus- management experience. He has time you spend helping a family to life without their loved one. A tomer service, media advertising managed and attended events memorialize their loved one at the graduate of Fairfield University Kara Clegg and global corporate relations. covering many different industries cemetery is appreciated more than with a bachelor’s degree in Kathleen is a legacy member of including pharmaceutical manu- any other service you could possi- English, Bob and his family are The Shore and Country Club in schedule for all cemeteries, keeps facturing & packaging, industrial bly provide them.” members of St Anthony of Padua Norwalk. She and her husband, all offices supplied, maintains security, law enforcement and Bob Ross was an account Parish in Fairfield. n 30 July 2021 Catholic Cemeteries Leadership Answering the Bishop’s call to service

By JOE PISANI tance of a Catholic burial, and ment pioneer Seth Glickenhaus sense of the secular world and we provide opportunities to make before starting his own firm, Belle the religious world. We met and BRIDGEPORT—Dean Gestal their decisions easier,” he said. Haven Investments. After trading he said he needed someone to of Greenwich went from a success- “The stewardship of the ceme- bonds for 40 years, he headed run the cemeteries, and I told ful Wall Street career and working teries, for me, has been a learning to San Francisco to help several him I was willing to help out the Dean Gestal with start-ups in the dot.com world experience,” he says. “What was startups in the dot-com world and Church any way I could.” to an entirely new challenge— good a year and a half ago may later moved to Salt Lake City to In the time Gestal has been becomes a burden we put on our directing the Catholic cemeteries not be good tomorrow, and we reorganize his friend’s manufac- on the job, he has brought on children at a time when they least of the Diocese of Bridgeport, in a continue to make changes as the turing company. new staff, launched a beautifica- need it. Our hope is to open peo- position he took at the request of opportunities present themselves. Then, three years ago, Bishop tion initiative for the cemeteries, ple’s minds and crack the door Bishop Frank J. Caggiano. Our goal is to make the cemeter- Caggiano called him with another begun a program to stress the before it becomes a catastrophe Today, he sees his work as ies truly the best they can be, and challenge: to use his management importance of planning ahead or emergency.” a ministry—the stewardship of I think our responsibility as advis- and business skills to revitalize for death, and started construc- His goal is to bring more peo- cemeteries with the mission of ers and counselors is a crucial the cemeteries of the Diocese of tion on a mausoleum at Gate of ple from an “at need” approach, helping people when they are the one. I know we’re headed in the Bridgeport. Heaven Cemetery in Trumbull, in which families suddenly find most vulnerable as they confront right direction.” It was, as they say, an offer which will have 600 crypts and themselves responding to a death, the death of a loved one or make One of the biggest changes has Gestal couldn’t refuse, and today 600 niches for cremains. to a “pre-need” approach to burial their own end-of-life decisions. been to make Catholic cemeteries he is the Director of Catholic The diocese maintains 14 ceme- services, which allows them to “That one soul you might help an LLC with its own charter and an Cemeteries. To him, it isn’t a job, teries, nine of which are active. The address the issue ahead of time, save at the end of life is worth the independent governing board that it’s a ministry—a ministry to help largest, St. Michael’s, has more avoid anguish and confusion, and price of admission,” he says. And works with the Diocese, he said. all Catholics recognize the impor- than 100 acres. The others are be prepared by putting their desires it’s a mission he shares with the Gestal has worked for some tance of a church burial. St. Mary-Putnam in Greenwich, in their last will and testament. bishop. of the most successful firms on “I am here because of Bishop St. John in Darien, St. John-St. “For us, this is a ministry,” “We help people, we educate Wall Street. He built up the bond Caggiano,” Gestal says. “I enjoy Mary in Norwalk, Assumption he said. “We have an opportu- them about death and the impor- department for money manage- him immensely. He has a great Greens Farms in Westport, nity to offer these services to all Gate of Heaven in Trumbull, Catholics in Fairfield County. Resurrection in Newtown, Queen We can help them and answer of Peace in Stamford, and St. their questions.” Peter in Danbury. There are four In recent months, he has inactive historical cemeteries—St. added six additional counselors Augustine in Bridgeport, St. James and plans to have two at each in Bridgeport, St. Mary in Norwalk active cemetery in the diocese. and Old St. Peter in Danbury. “They will be there to meet For Gestal, the cemeteries are people when they walk through Spath Bjorklund Associates, Inc. was established in 1977 vital to the 400,000 Catholics in the door and educate them about Fairfield County, “bookending” what is available and how we can by David S. Bjorklund, Jr., P.E. their spiritual lives from baptism help them make those final deci- Spath Bjorklund Associates, Inc. has developed a wide portfolio including to burial, even for those who sions,” he said. Civil Engineering, Site Planning, Environmental Monitoring, Land Use Planning, have fallen away from the faith. Catholic cemeteries offer a “The Catholic cemeteries are range of options. Traditionally, Wetlands Permitting and Construction & Consulting. about remembrance and hon- there has been full-body burial oring the wishes of the Church in a ground plot or entombed The SB Group of Companies services include the following: and of family members,” he said. in a mausoleum. Since 1963, “We are committed to providing cremation has been accepted LAND DEVELOPMENT cemetery property for the sacred by the Church, and now about Residential Design: Subdivisions & Planned Unit Developments religious function of burial. We 50 percent of families choose • Commercial Site Development Design are also committed to preserving that option. The remains, called • Site Development Construction Staking • Road Construction Design these resting places as a symbol “cremains,” are placed in an urn • Preparation of Applications for Land Use Permits of our Catholic belief.” and then laid in a niche, which is Cemeteries are sacred and located indoors in a mausoleum CIVIL ENGINEERING peaceful places, he says, where or outdoors in a structure called a Drainage System Analysis and Design Including: we honor the loved ones in our columbarium. • Stormwater Detention Studies • Erosion Control Inspection lives who have left us. A Catholic At Gate of Heaven Cemetery for Stormwater Discharge Associated Construction Activities cemetery is a place where we can in Trumbull, a 35-acre site on • Sanitary Sewer Analysis and Design Including Pump Stations share memories and show our Daniels Farm Road, the graves respect in a manner consistent have black markers. Cemetery • Analysis and Design of Connecticut D.E.P. Septic Systems with the teachings of the Church. services have installed illumi- • Connecticut D.E.P. Quarterly Monitoring for Discharge Permit Compliance Fundamental to this, is plan- nated glass-front niches for urns • Land Use Environmental Impact Analysis ning. at St. Peter’s in Danbury, Gate • Residential On-site Septic System Design and Repair “None of us wants to focus on of Heaven in Trumbull and St. death because it’s not a comfort- Mary-Putnam in Greenwich. In able topic,” Gestal says. “All of addition, a growing number of We are located at 593 Main Street, Monroe, Connecticut 06468 my friends are in the same boat families are choosing to memori- Tel: 203.268.5216 • Fax: 203.268.9492 as I am. Have we planned for our alize a loved one by having etch- www.thesbgroup.com burials and resting places? Most ings on the stones that capture Email: [email protected] of us haven’t even though it’s a the profession or hobbies of the simple thing to do. Otherwise, it ➤ continued on page 37 31 July 2021 Converting to a Digital Format A new approach to a traditional need

By JOE PISANI and go take care of that person ally been an operation based on and focusing more on a pre-need in a special way. I’ve been very paper and files. Now, he is bring- approach to funeral planning as DANBURY—Every day impressed. A complete stranger ing it into the 21st century by opposed to an at-need one (after a Kenn Devane drives through St. comes in, sits and cries, and you upgrading the internal commu- loved one passes).” Peter Cemetery to see what’s realize what this is all about and nications technology, creating a Gestal, who has a storied going on. As CEO and founder of how important it is.” new cemetery software program, career in finance and working MineTech, a global data analytics The family advisors at the working on new “pre-need” with start-ups, said: “Having Kenn Devane firm, he is helping the Diocese of cemetery offices love what they burial programs and deepening Kenn aboard has been terrific. He Bridgeport Catholic Cemeteries do, Devane says. They love help- relationships with parishes and has become an integral part of my will benefit the six cemetery convert their operations to a digi- ing people at a time when they funeral homes to help educate the team, and his skills really comple- offices at St. Mary-Putnam in tal format and improve the inter- are in great need. faithful about burial and cemetery ment what we already have. He Greenwich, St. John in Darien, nal communications system at “They put their own emo- options. has done an incredible job open- St. John/St. Mary in Norwalk, the six cemetery offices. But for tions on hold and listen so they Devane has also done work ing the doors here for marketing Gate of Heaven in Trumbull, St. Devane, the work is more than can learn about the needs and for the diocesan schools, parishes, and outreach.” Michael in Stratford and St. Peter upgrading technology, mining desires of passed family members foundations, charities and the With data from the 14 dioc- in Danbury. data and developing software. and then assist with the arrange- development office to help man- esan cemeteries, MineTech is “In 2020, when we started on “On so many occasions I’ve ments,” Devane said. “We hear age their data needs. using analytics to help people this project, all the forms were been really taken by the emo- a great deal about first respond- “Dean Gestal, the director focus on their pre-need burial paper,” he said. “Nothing was tional responses of our cemetery ers doing this but nothing about of Catholic Cemeteries, has a needs, which is something all the digital, so we converted them staff—they are a special breed,” family advisers, who many times vision about where he wants to Catholic faithful must eventually and utilized cloud servers for he says. “I have been in the office must manage the final affairs of take the cemeteries, and he asked face and manage. storage and sharing, as opposed doing work with them when those same people.” if we could help him bring that “I like the ability to use my to folders.” someone walks through the door What Devane does behind the plan to life,” Devane said. “We professional skills and apply them He says pre-need planning for on the worst day of their lives, scenes is foundational to Catholic started upgrading the technology, to my faith,” Devane said. your last days is in many ways and they stop what they’re doing Cemeteries, which has tradition- creating the software program The technological overhaul ➤ continued on page 36

GREVERGREVER && WARDWARD CEMETERYCEMETERY DESIGNDESIGN && PLANNINGPLANNING CEMETERY MASTER PLANS CONSTRUCTION PLANNING SECTION LAYOUT PLANS CREMATION GARDEN PLANS CEMETERY PLANNING SINCE 1939 LANDSCAPE PLANS LOT LAYOUT & SALES MAPS SPACE RECOVERY SITE EVALUATIONS 32 July 2021 Planned Giving Catholic values inspire legacy gifts BRIDGEPORT—Joseph and the homeless. For her, too, incredibly important to the needs ple do not have a will or a proper you), the gift goes to the charity. Gallagher, director of the gift was consistent with her of a parish or a Catholic commu- plan, or if they do, it is very old You can make a gift that costs Development for the Diocese of Catholics values. nity, and I like to tell pastors that and not up to date,” Gallagher you nothing. Most gifts through Bridgeport, tells the story of a “Legacy gifts come in all I’m sure they’d be very happy says. “Our approach has been your will, revocable trust, life woman who died several months shapes and sizes,” Gallagher to receive a $10,000 gift for their to give people the right informa- insurance policy, or retirement ago and left $500,000 to further says. “And some of the people youth ministry. It is not just the $1 tion so they can plan properly. account will make a big differ- the work of the seminary program who make the biggest legacy gifts million gifts that are impactful.” An estate plan will also enable ence to your parish or the diocese of the Diocese of Bridgeport, are not necessarily the wealthiest The most important first step, individuals to minimize their tax but will not cost you anything which she supported throughout people; however, the gifts they he says, is getting the faithful of burden. We always recommend while you are alive. her life. It was a greatly appre- leave are consistent with their the diocese to understand the that people consult a tax adviser You can choose to benefit ciated gift that was consistent Catholic values, and it should importance of legacy giving and or financial planner.” charity—or the government. with her Catholic values and one make all of us ask, ‘What will my the great benefit it can have pro- In addition to bequests, Many planned gifts are offset by that she had seriously considered legacy be?’” moting the work of the Church in another option is to name your savings in federal or state taxes. while preparing her will. Among the recipients of these Fairfield County. Some bequests preferred organization or par- This is especially true of gifts Gallagher also tells the story legacy gifts are parishes, diocesan are made to support the broad- ish among the beneficiaries of from an IRA or similar retire- of a Bridgeport woman who ministries, and the lay-run dioc- er mission of the Diocese of your 401(k), IRA or annuity. ment account. passed away, and shortly after- esan foundations for education, Bridgeport and the work of the Gallagher notes that the recipient Equally important to legacy ward, he received a call from faith and charity—Foundations in parishes. Others are more specific charities will not have to pay giving, is preparing for a proper her son. She was not a wealthy Education, Foundations in Faith in their intention, he says, and taxes on these gifts. Catholic burial and reaching out woman, but after her estate was and Foundations in Charity, are directed toward particular The diocese provides a thor- to advisers at Catholic Cemeteries settled, she made sure to leave a which advance the Catholic mis- programs of Catholic Charities or ough checklist of considerations so decisions about funerals and gift of $1,000 to St. Michael the sion throughout Fairfield County. scholarships for Catholic schools to help with estate planning. burials can be made in advance. Archangel Parish in Bridgeport, “We would like people to students. For more information and to In September, Gallagher and which had been her lifelong think that legacy giving applies One of the challenges is to access resources such as the Dean Gestal, director of Catholic church, and $1,000 to the dioce- to everything,” Gallagher says. ensure that people prepare a will. “Will Planning Checklist” and Cemeteries, will begin conducting san food programs for the hungry “For example, $10,000 can be “More than 60 percent of peo- the “Estate Administrator’s presentations at parishes through- Checklist,” visit the Diocese of out the diocese with the pastors, Bridgeport’s Planned Giving web- legal estate experts and financial site at www.bridgeportdiocese. planners to answer questions and Rock of Ages is North America’s premier plannedgiving.org or contact provide an overview of what is pos- granite quarrier and manufacturer. Gallagher at 203.416.1320 or by sible in the legacy giving program. email at [email protected]. Gestal cites the importance There are many ways to of “pre-need” planning when it The company now owns and operates several granite quarries remember the Diocese of comes to Catholic burials because in the United States, as well as certain Canadian provinces. Bridgeport or your parish in your of the stress and personal anguish It is the largest producer of cemetery memorials estate plans, and you may be sur- that accompany the death of a in both the US and Canada. prised to discover how inexpen- loved one. Catholic Cemeteries sive and convenient most of them has 11 family advisors in six offic- Our Memorial Division fabricates traditional and cremation memorials, mausoleums, are to accomplish. es that cover the diocesan ceme- columbaria, features and civic memorials with a dedication to quality products Charitable giving does not tery system in 14 locations. and unparalleled customer care, surpassing our competitors. require great wealth, Gallagher They are responsible for says. What it does require is gener- bereavement counseling, sitting We are pleased to announce that guided quarry tours have resumed as of June 1, 2021. osity of spirit—the desire to share down with the families, selling Before visiting our facility we ask that you review the current Vermont travel guidelines. what you have for the benefit of cemetery plots and memorials others. The ultimate value of your and many of the other myriad contribution will not be measured tasks that must be completed in dollars and cents. It will be mea- when someone dies. Among the sured in the difference it makes. tools they use in accomplishing Gallagher cited two examples. their ministry is a checklist called One donor has set aside $208,000 “83 Decisions in 72 Hours,” or 3.7 percent of his estate in a which compiles virtually every- trust for Diocese of Bridgeport thing that must be done preparing Catholic school scholarships. for and following a burial. Another is leaving 25 percent The list includes everything of the estate to the Diocese of from accessing the legal will and Bridgeport with no restrictions on military discharge certificates to the gift. meeting with the funeral director, Below are reasons to consider planning the wake and reception, making a planned gift: choosing music and readings for Your planned gift can be a the Funeral Mass, notifying rela- “back-up plan.” Naming the tives and friends, selecting flow- Diocese of Bridgeport or your par- ers and pallbearers and dozens of ish as a “contingent beneficiary” other decisions most people never in your estate planning means that think of until they are confronted Rock of Ages • 558 Graniteville Road, Graniteville, Vermont 05654 if some other condition of your with a death. phone: 800.421.0166 • www.rockofages.com plan is not met (such as another (For more information, visit www. beneficiary passing away before bridgeportdiocese.org/cemeteries) n Catholic values inspire legacy gifts Hutchinson Tree Care Specialists was founded in 1977 by Robert Hutchinson

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Family Owned and Operated 34 July 2021 St. Catherine of Siena Mausoleum Work progresses at Gate of Heaven Cemetery

By JOE PISANI the mausoleum will have three administration of the Diocese of Construction of the mauso- As a result, Catholic alcoves and be in the shape of a Bridgeport, is conceptualizing leum, which is the first the dio- Cemeteries has begun an out- TRUMBULL—Foundations cross. The front of the building religious art for the mausoleum. cese has constructed in 30 years, reach with bereavement programs are in place for the St. Catherine will be granite and open glass.” Among the features that will be is being done by Northeast to reach people who may have of Siena Mausoleum at the Jordao said the interior finish incorporated into the building Mausoleum LLC of New Hope, strayed from their faith and are Gate of Heaven Cemetery and will be adonis beige marble with will be panels containing the Penn., a general contractor unaware of the rules for a proper construction is expected to be an epoxy terrazzo floor, and the Beatitudes. specializing in the cemetery Catholic burial. completed by March 2022, exterior has local natural stone “One aspect of the design that industry. Most of the niches in the new according to Paul Jordao, a part- veneer and Giallo Santa Cecilia I think will be especially mean- The mausoleum is divided into mausoleum will have a glass front ner in Northeast Mausoleum of Granite from Brazil. ingful will be the eight mosaic four chapels, St. Therese, Christ and be lit from the inside, where Pennsylvania. At the entrance to the mau- panels placed in the interior of the King, St. Stephen and St. the urn will reside. They may “Now that the weather is soleum will be a magnificent the mausoleum, which will list Catherine. These will be centered also be personalized with a place broken, things are starting to roll bronze life-sized statue of the the eight Beatitudes,” Father around the open-air garden court for mementos of the deceased along,” he said. “We are really Risen Christ, to be sculpted in Marcello said. “Back in 2014, and four columbariums. person. In addition, vase holders enthusiastic to be building such a Italy by Cody Swanson, a recog- Pope Francis said, ‘At the end The mausoleum will offer and picture frames will be avail- unique mausoleum.” nized sculptor who teaches at the of the world, we will be judged. multiple crypt options including able for the shutter fronts of the Jordao, who is a partner in Florence Academy of Art, said And what questions will we be singles, tandems, slide-overs and crypts. the company with Kevin Fisher, Father Joseph Marcello, pastor asked there? What will these single and double couches. All Catholic Cemeteries has been said the design is very modern, of the Parish of St. Catherine questions be? What is the proto- of the columbarium niches in the reaching out to parishes because and at the center will be a large of Siena. It will be based on col by which the judge will eval- mausoleum will be glass. Gestal wants to encourage the courtyard garden, landscap- Gianlorenzo Bernini’s statue of uate us? We find it in Chapter 25 The mausoleum will be faith community to participate in ing and natural light. It will the risen Christ, which stands of the Gospel of Matthew. The adjacent to the St. Monica the diocese’s ministry to the fami- be enclosed with 10-foot glass atop the tabernacle in St. Peter’s Beatitudes...are the questions that Mausoleum, built 25 years ago lies of the deceased. panels and the interior will have Basilica in Vatican City. we will be asked on Judgement with 550 crypts and a number of After the St. Catherine of three skylights to allow more “When families come to this Day. We will not have titles, niches, which have all been sold. Siena Mausoleum is completed in light to enter. mausoleum for committal ser- credit or privileges on which to The current project also entails the fall, plans will be developed The St. Catherine Mausoleum vices or to visit the tombs of their stake our claims. The Lord will refurbishing the existing building, to construct additional mauso- will have almost 700 crypts and loved ones, they will be greeted recognize us if, in our turn, we which will include a sales office leums in Darien, Danbury and 608 niches for cremains, centered by this statue, and it will remind recognized him in the poor, in and a portable altar. then Greenwich, Gestal said. The on a bronze life-sized statue of them very powerfully of the vic- the hungry, in the indigent and Gestal says half of all inter- demand for above-ground burial the Risen Christ from Italy. tory of Jesus Christ over death, the outcast, in those who suffer ment services are cremation but is growing. Dean Gestal, director of which is the bedrock of our and are alone.... This is one of that 75 percent of them do not (For more information about the Catholic Cemeteries, said, “It will faith,” Father Marcello said. the fundamental criteria for eval- receive a final resting place and Catherine of Siena Mausoleum or for be a beautiful granite building A committee headed by Father uating our Christian life, which are often kept in homes or dis- inquiries, visit stcatherinemaus.com with a glass atrium from the floor Marcello and Deacon Patrick Jesus calls us to measure up to patched outside instead of in a or email [email protected] or call to the ceiling in the middle, and Toole, episcopal delegate for every day.’” sacred place. 203.742.1450, option 3.) n 35 July 2021 Burial Options Catholic burial after cremation TRUMBULL—James However, weeks pass, then Very often, he informs families Abriola, General Manager of months and eventually a year that they can inter a cremation Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, … and the issue is not resolved. urn on top of a family member’s still remembers the time a family Since 1963, when the Catholic grave. It is a great option because called him 15 years after their Church began to permit crema- you don’t have to purchase a new grandmother died and said, “We tion, there have been consider- grave. For example, he says, his would like to pick up our grand- able changes in the way families father is buried at a local cem- ma’s cremated remains.” approach burials. Today, more etery that would allow his cre- All that time, they had been than 50 percent of the deceased mation urn to be placed over his stored in a safe area, with other are cremated, which can lead to father’s casket. office teaches that cremation is place,” such as a church cem- cremains that families left behind. problems when the issue of inter- Abriola has also heard of fam- allowed, so long as it isn’t chosen etery. They say: “By burying “I’d guess that many funeral ment has not been decided. ily situations in which parents are to deny hope in the resurrection the bodies of the faithful, the homes have cremated remains “We want to have it resolved practicing Catholics who request- of the body. Church confirms her faith in the that have not been retrieved by ahead of time,” he says. “We try ed a funeral Mass and burial, but However, it cautions families resurrection of the body, and the families,” Abriola. “I don’t to determine what the plans are the children eventually disregard not to have the cremains of their intends to show the great digni- have an explanation about why for disposition, and there are a their wishes because they don’t loved ones scattered at sea or kept ty of the human body as an inte- this happens, but sometimes there number of options, including buy- think it is important. in urns at home, but properly bur- gral part of the human person may be a rift after the services, ing a niche for the urn or burying “A cemetery is a proper place ied with a Catholic funeral. Ashes whose body forms part of their and family members can’t decide the cremains at an existing family to reverently keep your loved should not be divided between identity.” where they would like them to plot with their loved ones. Years ones after they die,” Abriola says. family members, “nor may they Dean Gestal, Director of go, and it’s just easier not to pick back, there were fewer things In 2017 the Vatican re-af- be preserved in mementos, pieces Catholic Cemeteries, says many them up. In other cases, people to consider. People weren’t cre- firmed its 1963 decision that there of jewelry or other objects.” families don’t realize that if they are busy, and they leave them at mated. You were buried in the are valid sanitary, economic and The guidelines instruct have an existing plot in a cem- the funeral home and figure they cemetery, and that’s where you social reasons for cremation. The Catholics that cremated remains etery, even if all of the spaces are will deal with it at another time.” ended up.” document from the doctrinal should be kept in a “sacred ➤ continued on page 37

The St. Catherine of Siena Mausoleum Gate of Heaven Cemetery Trumbull, Connecticut It has been almost 30 years since the Diocese of Bridgeport built a new mausoleum. As a result, we have a great deal of interest in the new St. Catherine of Siena mausoleum from many families in the Trumbull, Monroe and Shelton Townships. Mausoleum Advanced Funeral Planning For those of you who are concerned about pre-planning for your future needs, St. Catherine of Siena mausoleum provides a geographically desirable solution. Mausoleum Sales Began in June 2021 We look forward to meeting with you to discuss the mausoleum crypt and marble or glass cremation niche options available to your family. The St. Catherine of Siena Mausoleum features 600+ full body crypts and 500+ niches divided between the Christ the King, St. Theresa, St. Stephen and St. Catherine of Siena Chapels. A 3D interactive video highlights every individual unit for your consideration and discussion with our Family Advisors. Please let us know if there is a specific chapel, Due to the high interest in the St. Catherine of Siena Mausoleum, crypt or niche location that you are interested we strongly suggest booking a reservation at 203.742.1450, option 3. in at the mausoleum Open House events start in June 2021, on Saturdays from 9 am to 3 pm. We will maintain COVID-19 prevention protocols for our mutual protection. Email: [email protected] We appreciate your interest in the mausoleum and look forward to meeting with you in the near future. Phone: 203.742.1450, option 3 36 July 2021 Catholic Cemeteries A personal ministry of praying for the dead and tidying up their graves

By JOE PISANI son Mark died on July 23, 2016, most of her time. (Her mother I started to really spend time Emma is buried in her hometown DARIEN—Linda Lyons exploring them and going there in Maine.) spends her mornings walking for walks with my dog Peaches on Linda and Peaches, who is through the cemetery with her dog a daily basis.” part Maltese and part terrier, set Peaches, looking at historic grave- When she worked at Home out early in the morning for their stones, visiting deceased family Depot in Norwalk, she would go walk, stopping to say hello to the members, picking up discarded out and eat her lunch at St. John/ maintenance crews, pausing for coffee cups and waiting for that St. Mary Cemetery, and during a prayer to tidy up a neglected still small voice of God to direct COVID when certain places were grave and examine historical her to certain headstones, where restricted, she would walk through details on a monument. she feels inspired to say a prayer. the cemetery and pick up flags “As I walk around, I look at A member of St. John Church that had fallen on the ground and the graves and say, ‘I know them in Darien and a lifelong Stamford pray for souls. and I know them,’” she says. “We resident, Linda has pursued her Her step-father Samuel pass by the police officer section, them and placed them on the had crude markers made of pipe own personal ministry at Queen of Van Houten and her step-sister and it’s like visiting old friends, graves of Stamford firefighters or wood with handwriting that Peace and St. John Cemeteries. Margaret Van Houten are buried and I’ll say hi and make the Sign and veterans. noted only the day they died … “I have always liked ceme- at St. John’s on Hoyt Street and of the Cross and say, ‘I hope “It makes me feel good,” she and they’re still there more than a teries,” she says. “And after my Camp Avenue, where she spends you’re resting in peace.’ I feel says. “I am a helpful person, and century later. You can find a lot of close to them all.” I’ve cleaned a lot of stones. I do it history in the cemetery.” Linda recently bought a niche anonymously, especially for some Linda takes special note of the A New Approach from page 31 in the mausoleum at St. John’s. of the veterans who probably have veterans’ gravestones. She has “I decided that I didn’t have no relatives.” found some from the Spanish- the same as financial and retirement planning. any plans, and I knew I had to Two years ago she volun- American War, another veteran “There is an affinity between financial and funeral plans,” he do something, so I called them teered to place flags on veterans’ from the Italian army and a says, “Most people do not finish the last chapter of their lives after I saw an insert in Fairfield graves in a cemetery in the South woman who was in the nursing and instead, leave this burden to family members. If you do a County Catholic and told them End of Stamford, and more corps. And then, there are the will, you obviously thought about what you want to have hap- what I wanted,” she recalled. recently she has replaced flags at graves of children whose lives pen when you pass… but why not complete your plans? You are Her cremains will be interred in St. John’s that have been frayed ended too soon, such as a little taking care of your material things but have left yourself literally a columbarium in the mausole- and damaged. girl born in 1980 who died in 1986 out of your plans.” um. Now, she jokingly tells her “I have a huge bag of flags in addition to infants who suc- For Devane, working with Catholic Cemeteries is more than friends, “I’ve found my niche…I that I will be taking to the VFW,” cumbed during the pandemic. She a project. He tells the story of how he was recently standing tell them it’s my condo unit in she says. “Sometimes I’ve found prays for them all. in the middle of Gate of Heaven Cemetery, pondering how he Section F, Row B.” them in the garbage, where peo- For Linda, the cemetery is a wound up in the cemetery business. Then, he heard Taps being She often takes it upon herself ple put them, and I’ll take them special place, a deeply spiritual played by a military honor guard nearby. to help the maintenance crew and out because the flag is important place. “It made me realize that messages and motivation come to frequently picks up trash and soft to me. A lot of people died for “I look around and realize us in many ways, some subtle and some not so much,” he said. drink containers whenever she that flag.” that all those people had lives “My ministry now is to help set up systems so that our diocesan comes upon them. She will also Linda is also intrigued by the … maybe not all of them had families can understand, plan and contract for their future burial right a flag on a veteran’s grave history she encounters during her children or siblings, but they all needs while they have time to consider all the available options and even trim around some of the walks through St. John’s. had a mother and a father, and and discuss them with their loved ones.” foot stones. “I discovered this whole sec- they had lives,” she said. “It’s Even if only a few more families consider pre-need planning, The American flag is very tion of people who died during very humbling. We will all be he says, it will be “mission accomplished.” n important to her. Over the years, the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic,” there someday, so we should she has bought quite a few of she said. “Some of their graves respect them.” n MANAGED IT SERVICES

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Catholic Burial from page 35 Answering the Bishop’s Call from page 30 filled, the cremated remains of three individuals may be placed above an existing in-ground burial, thereby making it possible to unite genera- deceased. ation of Catholics so they can 1986, they have been members tions of the same family in one cemetery. Many cemetery systems memorialize their parents in a of the Order of Malta. He said Catholic Cemeteries are also working to accommodate around the nation do an out- respectful way by putting their Born and raised on Long those who have a loved one cremated as well as those who may have reach to the parishes, with a cremains in a sacred place rather Island, he moved to Greenwich brought the cremains home after a funeral service but have not yet focus on bereavement support. than in, say, a closet. in 1978. After he graduated interred them. For example: Gestal hopes to see parishes In recent months, he has from Marist College, he enlist- create teams that will help fam- also launched a major beautifi- ed in the Air Force National • A single grave containing one full casket may accommodate the ilies through bereavement-fo- cation initiative at the diocesan Guard and eventually started interment of three additional cremated remains. cused groups so that when cemeteries. trading bonds on Wall Street. • A single grave without any casket may accommodate the interment parents or family members die, “To me, cemeteries are a com- For ten years, he worked with of four cremated remains. the survivors do not find them- munal place,” he says. “We have Seth Glickenhaus, where he • Those who prefer above-ground interment now also have the option selves with no emotional and opened them up to allow people built up the bond department of illuminated glass-front niches. spiritual support. to walk their dogs on a leash. We before starting his own firm. One of the challenges he are also planning walking tours at After retiring from trading “Catholic Cemeteries wishes to offer these opportunities to family faces is reaching a younger the St. Mary-Putnam Cemetery in in 2000, he moved to San members for the respectful burial of their loved ones in order to give generation of Catholics who Greenwich, where we have 100 Francisco and helped launch effective witness to the importance of Christian burial and belief in the have fallen away from their acres. We want to invite people start-ups in finance and dot- resurrection of the body,” Gestal said. faith or for whom religion is to come in because it’s a peaceful com. He later ran a company Joseph McCurdy, Director of Sales and Marketing at Catholic less important than it is to their place with beautiful trees and that manufactured carbon fiber Cemeteries, said that when you buy a plot, it comes with a right of parents. grounds.” wheels for racing bikes in Salt interment and each additional burial requires an additional rite of buri- Gestal believes the construc- Gestal, who with his wife Lake City. In 2012, he returned al. Costs to inter an urn of cremated remains would include the right tion of the St. Catherine of Janie, is on the Inner City to Greenwich. of interment, a fee to open the grave and the cost for a PolyCast urn Siena Mausoleum at Gate of Foundation board, lives in “We have been totally bless- vault in which the urn is placed to protect it. Heaven Cemetery in Trumbull Greenwich. They have been mar- ed,” he said, reflecting on his “This is a good thing because there are financial savings, and you will allow them to change the ried 46 years and have four daugh- life. “Now, my goal is to help get to stay with your other family members on sacred ground in a thinking of a younger gener- ters and eight grandchildren. Since the Church any way I can.” n Catholic burial.” n Westchester Sandblast Services

Since 1963, Westchester Sandblast Services has created lasting memories for our clients to remember their loved ones across Westchester and Fairfield counties.

While everyone enjoys the beauty and personalization that sandblast services provide, many do not understand how it works.

Sandblasting is the standard method used for most lettering and many designs seen on memorials.

Sandblasting involves the forcible propulsion of a gritty media (usually sand) against the surface of a material, such as a granite headstone, at a very high pressure. The designs and lettering get cut into a rubber mat to create a stencil. That stencil then gets applied to the headstone and held in place while the sandblasting occurs. All exposed surfaces (uncovered by the mat) then get treated.

There are seemingly endless lettering and design options available to you for honoring your family members. We look forward to working with you in the future.

250 Lakeview Avenue, Valhalla, NY 10595 • 914.946.2596

40 July 2021 St. Mary Cemetery More than a century of service in Greenwich

By JOE PISANI o’clock. Mrs. Doran had many cially authorized by the State warm friends in Greenwich, of Connecticut. It is one of GREENWICH—More than and the large attendance at her the most beautiful cemeteries a century ago, a news item in funeral attested to the kind regard in the Diocese of Bridgeport the Greenwich Graphic told the and respect in which she was with 80 acres of rolling land in tragic story of a woman who died held. She leaves a husband and Greenwich, and it is the final rest- at home shortly after surgery. Her children who have the sympathy ing place, along with the nearby an act of the state legislature, During the mid-1980s, the death prompted an outpouring of of neighbors and a large circle of diocesan-owned non-sectarian according to research provided Diocese of Bridgeport purchased sympathy from friends and fellow friends. The internment was in St. Putnam Cemetery, for more than by Christopher Shields, Curator the non-sectarian Putnam parishioners at St. Mary Church. Mary’s new cemetery on North 50,000 Catholics and non-Catho- of Library and Archives of the Cemetery at 35 Parsonage Road, “Mrs. Patrick Doran died sud- Street.” lics from surrounding communi- Greenwich Historical Society. which is the resting place of denly at her home Tuesday night Mrs. Doran was among the ties, including Westchester. The remains of those interred in notable residents such as Victor of hemorrhage,” the newspaper first to be buried at the “new” St. As the number of Catholics the original graveyard and the Borge, author Anya Seton, reported. “A day or two before Mary Cemetery, which had been increased, the burial ground on markers were relocated to the TV host Bud Collyer, and U.S her death, Mrs. Doran submitted relocated from the parish’s orig- Williams and Church Streets North Street site. Senator Prescott Bush and his to a surgical operation, which inal burial ground on Williams could no longer accommodate the In 1945 by the end of World wife Dorothy Bush, who were was successful, and she appeared Street, where the first church, a parish, which purchased a par- War II, the bodies of many ser- parents of President George to be getting along nicely until white frame building, was con- cel of land on North Street that vicemen and women had come H.W. Bush and grandparents of Tuesday evening, when she structed in 1860. belonged to trustee John Maher home to Greenwich for burial, President George W. Bush. became prostrated and died at Today, St. Mary/Putnam on June 21, 1899, and was later and a Crucifixion Monument was Among those buried at St. ten o’clock. The funeral service Cemetery at 399 North Street dedicated by Bishop Tierney. erected at the cemetery, honoring Mary Cemetery are George and was held at St. Mary’s Church has provided more than a cen- The cemetery was officially the war dead and deceased mem- Ann Brannack Skakel, yesterday morning at half-past ten tury of service since it was offi- recognized on May 8, 1919, by bers of the parish. ➤ continued on page 42

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Bridgeport | Danbury | Darien | Fairfield| Georgetown | Norwalk | Ridgefield Rowayton | Stamford | Weston | Westport | Wilton 41 July 2021 St. Michael Cemetery Serving the diocese for 135 years

By JOE PISANI Records exist for virtually Michael, which is believed to be every burial except the first 20 the highest number of any ceme- BRIDGEPORT/ years from 1886 to 1906 because tery in the state. STRATFORD—St. Michael they were stored in a church and There is also a special area Cemetery opened in 1886, and were destroyed in a fire. called the Priests’ Circle, where there is still a gravestone that Most of the earlier gravesites almost 150 priests are bur- marks the first burial there, with have vertical headstones, but ied, including Bishop Walter the weathered and faded lettering when those plots were no longer W. Curtis of the Diocese of that says, “The First Burial in available flush markers were Bridgeport. Dominating the This Cemetery.” And 135 years used in the pathways. There center of the circle is a majestic later, through wars and pandem- is also available space in the marble and bronze depiction of ics and day-to-day life, there are Garden Mausoleum on the Surf the crucifixion with the Blessed an estimated 200,000 people who Avenue side, and in the chapel Mother, St. John and St. Mary have been laid to rest on those area there are niches to hold cre- Magdalen at the foot of the cross, 110 acres. mains. beneath which is an altar. When the cemetery first Among the more well- According to a published opened, the plots were laid known people buried there are report in the Bridgeport Herald, out systematically by sections Fred DeLuca, a businessman tragedy struck the cemetery on with the closest near Stratford and co-founder of the Subway March 26, 1942, when Second Avenue and moving out from franchise of sandwich shops, Lieutenant Edward G. Armstrong there. Today, there are 17 num- mations, with cremations becom- mausoleum, was built on the site and Bridgeport’s most famous flew his P39 fighter aircraft on bered sections bisected by the ing the more popular option. of the caretaker’s house. professional ballplayer, James a training flight over Stratford roadways. However, there is no St. Michael’s, which averages Until the 1960s, he lived on O’Rourke, one of the first 19th while doing maneuvers when the section 13. A representative of about 300 burials a year, has two the grounds with his family. He century players who was induct- aircraft’s engine quit at 500 feet Catholic Cemeteries estimates mausoleums, one built in the had his own crew, which did ed into the Baseball Hall of and crashed into the cemetery. that 60 percent of the burials are 1960s and the other in the 1980s. burials, maintained the landscap- Fame in 1945. He is one of 14 The pilot died instantly, and the full body and 40 percent are cre- The older, the St. Michael Chapel ing and sold plots. pro-baseball players buried at St. plane was demolished. n A baseball legend lies in rest at St. Michael’s

By JOE PISANI managed for several seasons with Primarily a left fielder, he the Bisons and Senators. In 1880, also served as catcher and BRIDGEPORT/ he was the National League first baseman. His lifetime STRATFORD—Every year, home run leader. batting average was 311, baseball enthusiasts and histo- O’Rourke graduated from the and he had 2,643 hits, 62 rians make a pilgrimage to St. Yale School of Law in 1887 and home runs and 1,208 runs Michael Cemetery in Stratford practiced in the city when he batted in. to pay tribute to the most wasn’t playing ball. According Several legends sur- famous ballplayer to come out of to the Sporting Life, O’Rourke round O’Rourke, who was Bridgeport—Jim O’Rourke, one “earned the nickname ‘Orator the son of Irish immigrants of the first 19th century players Jim’ because of his verbosity on and married to a woman inducted into the Baseball Hall of the field, his intellect and his law born in Ireland. According Fame in 1945. degree—uncommon in a game to the Sporting Life, he James Henry O’Rourke, born regarded as a rough immigrant was asked to drop the “O” September 1, 1850, was a profes- sport at the time.” from his name when he sional ballplayer in the National He and only 28 other players signed with Boston and he Association and Major League in baseball history had careers reportedly responded, “I Baseball, who was primarily that spanned four decades. Even would rather die than give a left-fielder. He is one of 14 though he left the major leagues up my father’s name. A pro-baseball players buried at St. in 1893, he played in the minors million dollars would not Michael, which is believed to be until he was more than 50 years tempt me.” the highest number of any ceme- Association team as a catcher. old. While he was an executive In addition, it is said tery in the state. After the Mansfields folded, for a Bridgeport team in the that one condition for A statue of O’Rourke, who he was offered a contract with Connecticut league in 1895, O’Rourke to sign his later became a lawyer and was the Boston Red Stockings and O’Rourke hired the first African first contract with the known as “Orator Jim” is at played with them until 1878. American minor league ball Mansfields was that man- Harbor Yards. Born in East O’Rourke was the first person in player. agement had to get some- Bridgeport, he worked on the the National League to record a When O’Rourke was 54, he one to do the chores on and was buried at St. Michael family farm and played in the base hit on April 22, 1876. became the oldest player to take the family farm. John O’Rourke, Cemetery. Very often, his enthu- youth league and semi-pro base- During his career, he also the field in the National League his older brother, and James siasts and fans honor him and ball during his early years. He played for the Providence Grays, for his final appearance with the O’Rourke, his son, also played in keep his memory alive by leaving made his professional debut with the Boston Red Caps, the Buffalo New York Giants on September the major leagues. behind baseballs, balloons, cards, the Middletown Mansfields in Bisons, the New York Giants and 22, 1904. At 60, he caught a com- Jim O’Rourke died at 68 on rosaries and even a spatula and 1872 and joined the National the Washington Senators and plete game in the minor leagues. January 8, 1919 in Bridgeport wooden spoon at his grave. n 42 July 2021 Visitors Honoring her parents memory at Gate of Heaven

By JOE PISANI me, and I don’t want to neglect of Mount Carmel that she would them.” name her daughter Carmen. TRUMBULL—A couple of The retired Superior Court “My dad was a man ahead times a week, Carmen Lopez vis- judge who grew up in Bridgeport of his time,” Lopez says. “He its her parents’ grave at Gate of is indebted to her parents for was from Puerto Rico, and he Heaven Cemetery to say prayers the life they gave her. She was believed that women needed to be and care for the flowers she has two years old when her parents, educated.” Because of his inspira- planted. Gladys and Angel Lopez, relo- tion, Carmen earned a law degree “I’ll water the flowers, and cated to Bridgeport from Puerto and became a Superior Court while I’m there, I meet other Rico. judge, while her sister Betty people suffering over their loss,” “My mother was such a Martinez got a master’s degree she says. “It’s comforting for me good Catholic her whole life,” and taught in the Bridgeport to be there and say prayers and Lopez recalls. “She worked in Public School system. Her son, spend time with my father and the church, and as a little girl she Michael Angel Martinez, a grad- mother. I like to go there and would dress the saints to get them uate of American University, make sure everything is nice and ready for Mass on holidays.” And followed in her footsteps and neat, the way my parents would when her mother was pregnant, teaches in Milford. on the East Side of Bridgeport, This past summer, Father like it…. They never neglected she made a promise to Our Lady Carmen and her sister grew up where Gladys learned to speak Eugene R. Szantyr, a family English with an Italian accent, friend and retired pastor of St. Lopez says. The girls went to Andrew, celebrated a memorial Century of Service from page 40 Catholic schools, first at St. Mary Mass for Angel Lopez. Elementary School and later St. Since her parents died, Lopez parents of Ethel Kennedy, people to maintain the grounds. Diocesan cemeteries have Stephen School and Cathedral has been to the cemetery many U.S. Congressman William Bishop Frank J. Caggiano a long tradition of service High School. Lopez graduated times. It is a special place for her. L. Tierney and TV personality has said, “When a person comes to the Catholic community, from Sacred Heart University “The service the cemetery Jack Lescoulie. into our cemeteries, it should be including non-Catholic spous- before entering Suffolk Law gives is not just providing a St. Mary/Putnam Cemetery an inviting, welcoming, prayer- es, children, parents and other School in Boston. grave but also providing comfort, has some of the most beautiful ful, respectful place because it is relatives. Christians with a She received her First understanding and care because natural settings in town, with sacred ground.” connection to them may also Communion and Confirmation you are leaving a loved one a total of 80 acres on rolling Toward that goal, McCurdy be buried there. at the old St. Mary Church on there,” Lopez says. The staff has hills with woods and wetlands. says, there have been significant The diocese provides fam- Pembroke Street, where she was been responsive to her concerns The peaceful bucolic landscape improvements and upgrades in ily-service advisers. People in church plays and pageants. over the years, especially when attracts runners, arborists, bird- recent months. “The Cottage,” are encouraged to speak to After fifth grade, the family the memorial stone was sinking watchers and historical tours, where the cemetery offices are an adviser, who can answer moved to the West Side and and needed to be repaired. according to Joseph McCurdy, located, has been completely ren- questions about the options, began attending Our Lady of She praised Ed Tamimi, a director of sales and marketing ovated with new windows, floor- financing and Church teach- Providence Mission. When nuns senior adviser with Catholic for Catholic Cemeteries. ing, air conditioning, bathrooms ings on burials. came from Spain to help the mis- Cemeteries. “In addition to “It is a historical place and walkways. What had been a A commemorative history sion, her parents along with her taking care of my concerns, he and a very special place,” holding area now is the central of St. Mary Parish on its 75th uncle Johnny Rodriguez and his was very kind, understanding McCurdy says. “I wish I office, located at the entrance on anniversary in 1975 pointed wife Gloria helped introduce the and comforting regarding the could put into words how 35 Parsonage Road. to the importance of the cem- sisters to the Spanish-speaking grief that I was experiencing,” beautiful and serene it is Areas previously used for etery in the life of the faith community. she said. “There seems to be no there. On an autumn day, recycling have been cleaned up, community. Lopez, who is married to doubt that this ‘brave new world’ the sky is clear blue, and the leveled and seeded. In addition, “The first Catholics to Superior Court Judge Dale W. imposes added stress on all of us, leaves have brilliant colors. McCurdy says, the cemetery is settle in Greenwich in 1845 Radcliffe of Trumbull, retired and it was an unexpected treat to I’m always in awe of the applying for recognition as an had come from other coun- from the judiciary to care for her have someone from the business craftsmanship of the head- arboretum because it is home tries and they had accepted parents in their later years, both world be as gracious as Ed.” stones and monuments.” to more than 100 different spe- the challenge of a strange of whom lived in Bridgeport and In recent years, retired Judge One notable example is a cies of trees, which have been homeland and new lifestyle,” were parishioners at St. Andrew Lopez has been active in com- private marble mausoleum tagged and identified with golden it said. “They wanted a place Church. munity issues, helping residents built in the late 19th century plaques. to worship God, and a sanctu- Her mother died in November in areas such as education, traffic for a prominent resident by “We have identified trees ary where their infants could 2016 and was buried at Gate of control, tenant issues and water six craftsmen who came from and tagged them and are in be christened, where their Heaven Cemetery. Carmen’s pollution control. Italy and stayed for almost a the process of the application,” children could be confirmed, father eventually moved into her “That was my skill set,” she year until the project was com- McCurdy says. “We have also where their young people home as his condition worsened, says, “so I donate the skills of pleted, McCurdy said. hired a tree service company that could be married...and where and he lived there for his last writing and preparing arguments More than 50,000 peo- comes in every month and tackles their old people could be laid two years. He had just turned 93 to help other people who want to ple are buried in St. Mary/ a project of their choice.” to rest.” That mission is the when he passed away, she said. take on those fights.” Putnam Cemetery and there If a tree is dead, he explains, a same today. “We did everything we And during the week, she are approximately 20,000 chainsaw artist comes and creates (For further information, could,” she recalls. “He lived usually finds herself at Gate of head stones. McCurdy, who a sculpture with the remain- call 203.416.1494 or visit: here with us, and we had caregiv- Heaven, where her parents and says there are about 300 buri- ing 10-foot portion. St. Mary/ www.bridgeportdiocese.org/cath- ers for him, but then his mobility other family members are buried, als a year, has a crew of four Putnam has an eagle. olic-cemeteries/home) n was impacted, and he couldn’t praying for them and comforting walk and was in constant pain.” other people in their loss. n 43 July 2021 Catholic Funerals More important than ever in a COVID World

We are slowly emerging from more and more uncomfortable funeral rituals that the Church bye to a loved one, we witness the Diocese of Bridgeport can assist the COVID-19 pandemic. Stores with being in the presence of has gifted to us. Rich in sym- coming together of the community in many ways to ensure peace are opening up, movie theatres others, even close family and bolism, they remind us of our of the living and the Community of mind, whether you choose to and restaurants are happily receiv- friends. We hand-sanitized and Baptism as the door to eternal of Saints. We are surrounded by bury the body or opt for crema- ing guests, and our parishes that wore masks, and we sent flowers life, and all three parts involve a those who have gone before us tion. For those preferring above had been closed outright or only and wrote notes of support to gathering of the Christian com- sharing the same faith as that of ground entombment, a new mau- had minimal numbers of parish- the ones suffering the loss rather munity. Our collective strength is our parents and grandparents. soleum, St. Catherine of Siena, ioners in attendance are trying to than be in attendance, not that greatest when we gather together It is perhaps on account of the the first in twenty years, is under rediscover that sense of communi- we were permitted to be there in faith as that is when the Holy pandemic that more Catholics construction at Gate of Heaven ty, that identity that characterizes anyways. We became in many Spirit is among us. As Jesus said, are looking at cremation as Cemetery in Trumbull. Plans for them a family of faith. instances virtual participants. “When two or three gather in an option for the first time, as the building of the diocese’s first Whether COVID-19 ever goes This evolving situation, based on my name, there am I with them” there appears to be a measure crematorium are in their prelimi- away, or whether we might have fear of the unknown, created a (Matthew 18:20). of simplicity involved, with nary stages. to manage it as we do the onset of disconnect in celebrating the Rite That is why the Church pre- fewer numbers of people and Reach out to your parish priest annual flu season, we are intent of Christian Burial: the Vigil, the fers we bring the bodies of our a perception of lower expense. about how to connect with your on returning to living life as we Funeral Mass and the Prayers of deceased loved ones to the church One thing is clear, in the midst local Catholic cemetery or go to once knew it, surrounded by close Committal, and left the family when a funeral Mass is celebrated of all the restrictions and limits bridgeportdiocese.org for further family and friends, and celebrating more often than not feeling sepa- and to bury them in the blessed placed on those who could or not information. Above all, keep those important milestones in life rated from the wider parish com- ground of the Catholic Cemetery. attend the funeral of a loved one, connected to your parish, and to that Christians do; baptisms, first munity that traditionally would It is our body that was temple of grief became more complicated the faith we all share as Catholic communions, confirmations, mar- have been present to support the the Holy Spirit when the person and often harder to express in a Christians in the Diocese of riages and yes, celebrating a life family with prayers, hospitality was alive, and was that same healthy way. If you are at a stage Bridgeport. It is in celebrating the lived, marking the passage from and just ‘being there.” body that was nourished at the of life that the pre-planning of various rites and rituals available to death to eternal life. It is now more important table of the Eucharist. When we your cemetery arrangements is us that will help to strengthen our COVID-19 changed the way than ever, at this critical time, gather for a funeral committal at becoming increasingly important, faith and help us to emerge ever we celebrated funerals. We grew to re-embrace and celebrate the a Catholic cemetery to say good the Catholic Cemeteries of the stronger from these difficult days. n

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Our 11,000 sq. ft. colonial with its flexible size chapels, can accommodate small gatherings to 300 plus people services. Tastefully decorated, our new home features a location convenient to our surrounding communities with on site parking for hundreds of cars, generous hallways, library, working fireplaces, family retreat area with a children’s play room, Bluestone Patio and reflection garden. We also offer fully equipped audio-visual memorial presentations and live musical services. 203.256.8988 1209 Post Road, Fairfield, CT 06824 • www.LeskoPolkeFuneralHome.com 48 July 2021 Catholic Cemeteries He helped his priest friend even after death NORWALK—Ten months basement of the church,” Kriewald Cromwell in 1965 and continued Farms in Westport. She also assist- ago, Chuck Kriewald of St. Mary recalls. “When I saw that he had no at Pope John XXIII National ed him in selecting the appropriate Church lost one of his cousins to stone, I went to Father John Ringley, Seminary in Weston, Mass. He design for the stone. COVID-19 and he helped do her our pastor, and discussed the idea was ordained to the priesthood by “I’ve always enjoyed working funeral arrangements. While he of raising money to purchase one. Bishop Walter W. Curtis in Blessed with Patti,” Kriewald says. “I was at the cemetery, he walked I also consulted with Monsignor Sacrament Church in Bridgeport on couldn’t have done Msgr. Sanders’ over to the circle where priests William Scheyd who was a friend of February 10, 1973. stone without her, and whenever I are buried and came upon the Monsignor Sanders.” During his years at St. Mary’s, have a veteran’s funeral, I go there plot of his friend Msgr. John Kriewald approached about 12 he became good friends with and work with her.” Sanders and was saddened to see people, and through their gener- Kriewald, who at one point even She also helped Kriewald there was no gravestone. osity, they were able to purchase gave the priest an album by the arrange for his cousin’s burial Msgr. Sanders, who was paro- a monument for Msgr. Sanders, Duke Ellington Orchestra. at Assumption Green Farms chial vicar at St. Mary’s in Norwalk which will be placed on his grave Kriewald regularly helps with Cemetery. from 1988 to 2000, when he retired, in the priests’ circle at St. John/ the funeral arrangements of parish- “She led us through the entire had a renowned career as trombon- St. Mary Cemetery in Norwalk at Orchestral Instrument Department ioners and veterans in his capacity process,” he says. “I can’t say ist in the Duke Ellington Orchestra the end of July. in 1949. After completing his as judge advocate of the Veterans enough regarding her understanding before becoming a priest. After A veteran of the U.S. Navy, course work at Juilliard, he worked of Foreign Wars in Norwalk, of people.” retiring, he was a resident of the Msgr. Sanders played in the Navy as a trombone player, including and he often collaborates with Kriewald also consults her when Catherine Dennis Keefe Queen of Band and earned the rank of playing with the Duke Ellington Patti Barrientos, a senior advisor there is a veteran’s funeral, and the Clergy Residence in Stamford, Musician Second Class. Returning to Orchestra from 1953-1959. for Catholic Cemeteries, who is sometimes he makes arrangements where he died at 93. New York, he entered the Juilliard Pursuing his lifelong dream of responsible for St. John/St. Mary for as many as two a week. Born “He could really play that trom- School of Music and received a being a priest, he began his forma- Cemetery in Norwalk, St. John in and raised in Westport, Kriewald bone, and he used to practice in the diploma in trombone from the tion at Holy Apostles Seminary in Darien, and Assumption Green ➤ continued on page 49

Lawrence Funeral Home Along with the dedicated Lawrence Funeral Home staff, Kevin and Erika look forward to serving the needs of Darien and the surrounding communities. Kevin M. Lesko—Funeral Director, Co-Owner Erika A. Cueto—Funeral Director, Co-Owner Craig D. Ackerman—Funeral Director, Embalmer Shayna M. Gilbert—Funeral Director, Embalmer Edward “Jed” G. Lawrence, Jr.—Funeral Director

At Lawrence Funeral Home, the finest qualified and compassionate personnel, facilities, and specialty equipment are at your service 24/7/365. We also go to great lengths to ensure that the merchandise from which you select offers the highest level of quality and value within every price range—everyone at the Lawrence Funeral Home, LLC. Understands customer care, family and tradition are more than words. 203.655.6127 2119 Boston Post Road • Darien, CT 06820 • www.Lawrencefuneralhome.com 49 July 2021 A Catholic Funeral He helped his priest friend even after death Planning my father’s Funeral

By DR. PATRICK DONOVAN taught me how to pray. The lack life was. The nuance is subtle, but In the Eucharistic sacrifice, the of any conversation robbed me of important. Misunderstood, a funeral Church celebrates Christ’s Passover When my father was diagnosed that and it took a while for me to can easily devolve into a fight with from death to life and our partic- Dr. Patrick Donovan with cancer just after Christmas forgive my father for his inability to a local parish about why Frank ipation in this great mystery. The several years ago, we knew how the have that conversation. Sinatra‘s, “I Did It My Way“ is not faith of all the baptized is renewed Scriptures. It’s an opportunity to talk story would end. It’s not that we are I have been in ministry for 30 an appropriate song for the funer- and nourished in this celebration. about hymns that move you, inspire not people of faith, it’s just that we years. I have sat with families at the al, but perfect for the gathering of The intimate connection between you, and bring you closer to the had seen this movie before. Years very worst of times. I’ve been with friends following the services. But if the baptism of the Christian into the Divine. Having to choose who will before Dad‘s diagnosis, my broth- children as we told them that their we don’t understand the purpose of death and resurrection of Christ and make decisions or manage finances er was diagnosed with the same parents are gone. I’ve been with par- a funeral, and no conversation has the Eucharistic celebration is one can indeed be difficult conversations. cancer, at the same hospital, by the ents to tell them did their children been held beforehand, the exchange of the main reasons for offering the But it is better to suffer through a same doctor, following the same never arrived at their destination. between the parish and the family Mass for the deceased. Every person difficult conversation now than to procedure, with a tumor being dis- Every single opportunity has been become ugly quickly. deserves that kind of celebration. leave loved one to muddle through, covered in exactly the same place. an amazing gift. Yet in nearly every The Church through its funeral Asking the tough questions may or even fight it out, on their own. My brother lasted 18 months. My case, it would have been a better rites commends the dead to God’s be a difficult exercise, but trust me, When I think back to the father was gone in less than six. experience if the people involved merciful love and pleads for the it’s not as difficult as a family sit- days after my father‘s passing, I A few weeks after his diagnosis, had talked openly about the end of forgiveness of his or her sins. The ting around having just lost a loved remember being frustrated that he my mother called and asked me to their lives. It’s not just a matter of celebration of the Christian funeral one, wondering out loud what the hadn’t wanted to talk about his bring the necessary books so that faith, it’s a matter of practicality. brings hope and consolation to the deceased would have wanted. funeral celebration. I remember we could plan the funeral. It was a Here’s the truth. We are all living. We are confident in the con- Set some time aside at the next wishing I had pushed the issue little surreal, but since I had been going to die. It’s that simple. viction that death is not the end. It family gathering. Make it a family just a little bit more. But those the one who planned my brother’s Understanding this truth is the first does it break the bonds of family, exercise. If your family is anything were difficult days and no one funeral, I grab the necessary tools step to understanding the impor- friendship, and community that are like mine, it’s bound to become the wanted to admit what was hap- and headed to Tennessee. tance of discussing the end of your forged in life. A funeral is an oppor- situation filled with laughter, tears, pening. Still, even a brief conver- My father wanted absolutely life with loved ones. More than tunity for the church to intercede on and every emotion in between. It’s sation could have avoided the dif- nothing to do with it. He did not just the songs, the readings, the behalf of the person who has died. an opportunity to break open the ficult moments that followed. n want to talk about his obituary. pallbearers, who will share words He did not want to talk about his of remembrance, there are many funeral. He did not want to select other items to consider. Do you readings. He had no interest in want extraordinary means used to selecting music. All he wanted to keep you alive? Who will make do was fight. Somehow, this man decisions about your care if you of extraordinary faith believed that are incapacitated? Who will handle having the conversation about the your finances? These are import- end of his life was, in a way, sur- ant conversations that many of us rendering the rest of his life. avoid because we cannot grasp the Not wanting to belabor the simple truth: we are never getting Partners For Architecture is an architecture firm providing a range of services in a number of sectors point, I let it go. By the end, when out of our current situation alive. including residential, commercial, hospitality, education and municipal construction. he seemed interested, it was too For those of us with family mem- late. He was too weak to talk and bers who no longer practice the faith, Partners For Architecture could only nod in agreement with a funeral is also an opportunity to was inaugurated in 2000 my suggestions. That felt like I was welcome these loved ones home. with the dedication driving the boat, not him. These By planning ahead, you are able to to establish are my ideas, not his. When no include family members in conversa- an architectural firm one plans, the loudest voice wins. tions that could ultimately lead them that provides Nothing in the world prepares a to return to the practice of the faith. comprehensive child for the loss of a parent, but Contrary to popular belief, a and environmentally sensitive I longed for a funeral celebration funeral is not a celebration of the architectural services. that was an appropriate memorial- life of the one who has died; it’s a ization of this giant of a man who celebration of the gift the person’s The very foundation Priest Friend from page 48 of Partners for Architecture is the desire to create a built is a veteran of the Vietnam War, and he is retired from his work in security environment that is respectful management with Securitas, the international security services corporation. to its surroundings and does not view our planet’s resources as being ‘there for the taking’. In his work with the VFW, he also assisted in the funeral arrange- ments of Staff Sergeant Louis Doddo, a Norwalk native who entered Beyond the environment, our ‘workshop’ is one which eliminates the common chain of commands found the U.S. Army in 1941 during World War II. SSG Doddo served in the Pacific Theater with the 27th Infantry Division in large firms, our organization is known for a fresh, uncomplicated and straightforward hands-on approach, and was killed in 1944 in the fierce Battle of Saipan in the Northern Mariana with a principal completely involved in every aspect of your project. Islands during a massive Japanese attack. His body was never identified. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple We wish the Catholic Community Peace and Consolation Heart Medals along with other citations. Last November, his remains when visiting their new St. Catherine of Siena Mausoleum at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. were identified through a DNA match with his great-niece Lorraine Denicola of Norwalk. They were disinterred from Manila American Partners For Architecture • 48 Union Street • Stamford, CT 06906 Cemetery in the Philippines and repatriated to the United States this year, where they laid to rest at St. John Cemetery on June 18 with Phone: 203.708.0047 • Email: [email protected] graveside services with full military honors, Kriewald said. n 50 July 2021 Catholic Cemeteries Planning a Catholic Funeral Many people who attend a tion, had broken the chains of sin a sealed container (not spread Catholic funeral for the first time and death that bound humanity” openly)—and a marker might will often remark how beautiful (Order of Christian Funerals not be possible in these circum- it is. Steeped in centuries-old cus- (OCF), No. 1). This maxim stances. tom and ritual as Catholic funeral guides the Christian approach to The choice of burial or cre- rites are, that’s understandable. funerals. mation also will indicate how But the most important aspect There needs to be direct com- much of the remainder of the Benefits of about Catholic funerals is that munication with the parish and funeral events take place. If they express the Christian hope funeral home. Usually, funeral burial of the body is chosen, the in eternal life and the resurrec- homes are fully aware of each funeral is often held within a Advance/Pre-Need tion of the body on the last day. parish’s expectations and regula- few days. If cremation is chosen, Every component of the Catholic tions. But it is important to be in that time could be extended a Planning funeral rites should express these communication with the parish bit—although it is preferable to fundamental beliefs and hopes. directly. Perhaps someone can celebrate the funeral as soon as No one wants to think about it, but the purchase of cemetery Our funeral rites are not “a be appointed within the family to possible and not delay it for too property in advance of need, is the smart thing to do! Sometime celebration of life,” as they are be the point person for this com- long. Also if cremation is chosen, in the distant future you will be thankful you took care of this referred to sometimes, but a priv- munication, depending on the will there still be a viewing of important matter now. ileged opportunity to return to circumstances. the body and will the body be While death might seem like the end of the road, Christians God the gift of the deceased, hop- brought to church for the funeral believe it is just a beginning. “In the face of death, the Church ing to usher them into paradise Burial or Cremation? Mass, or will the body be cremat- confidently proclaims that God has created each person for eter- with the aid of our prayers. Our One of the first decisions that ed shortly after death? nal life and that Jesus, the Son of God, by his death and resurrec- love for the departed is expressed needs to be made is whether the (For more information go to: tion, had broken the chains of sin and death that bound human- after death, above all else, in our deceased will be buried or cre- www.bridgeportdiocese.org/wp-con- ity” (Order of Christian Funerals (OCF), No. 1). This maxim prayer for them. mated. Cremation is allowed, so tent/uploads/2019/10/Article_ guides the Christian approach to funerals. When a loved one dies, those long as this option isn’t chosen Planning-and-Understanding-the- There needs to be direct communication with the parish and left here to ensure their proper to express anything contrary to Catholic-Funeral.pdf.) n funeral home. Usually, funeral homes are fully aware of each and dignified burial can often get Christian hope—particularly the parish’s expectations and regulations. But it is important to be in bogged down by all the decisions hope in the resurrection of the communication with the parish directly. Perhaps someone can be needing to be made. In that case, body. Nonetheless, the Church’s Burial Options appointed within the family to be the point person for this com- we often will miss the opportuni- tradition recommends burial munication, depending on the circumstances. ty to focus on the faith and hope over cremation. More and more 1. In Ground Burial There are many benefits to planning your own funeral and the Catholic funeral rites express. families are opting for cremation • Flush/Flat monument final arrangements. Here are a few: Bereaved family and friends often today to decrease funeral expens- • Slant Monument You and your loved ones make the decisions around your will have to make many decisions es. But the decision should be • Upright funeral together, and you do not leave important arrangements about their loved one’s funeral, based in all the facts, so make to others. but often may not be fully pre- sure to compare the costs when 2. In Ground Cremation Your children do not have to make difficult decisions regard- pared to do so. Whenever possi- discussing options with the funer- • Cremation Bench ing your funeral arrangements and are clear in what your wishes ble, the Church recommends that al director. • Cremation feature are. the family should be involved in In either case, a place of burial You are under normal emotional circumstances when a loved planning the funeral rites—from needs to be chosen. The Church’s 3. Community Mausoleum one passes away, which could make decisions more difficult. choices of texts and readings to preference is that Catholics be You have time to make the right decisions for you and your music and liturgical ministers. buried in the consecrated ground 4. Private Mausoleum family. They may wish to make decisions of a Catholic cemetery, but other • Lawn Crypt You can purchase cemetery property out of current income on some of these components and cemeteries may be chosen. The and current prices. not on others. They may leave point is that bodies need to be 5. Community Mausoleum The purchase of cemetery property is an inevitable task. some or all of the decisions up to disposed of in a fitting and dig- Niches (cremation) At a time of need, cemetery property must be paid in full. the parish staff as well. nified way, consonant with the • Illuminated You can make your final arrangements now, based on one This guide is meant to explain human dignity that should be Glass front niches of the above reasons, or you can wait until you have to decide the Catholic funeral rites and give afforded to everyone, made in the • Feature niches at a time of great emotional stress, when families can be over- some guidance on the decisions image of God as we are. whelmed by options and responsibilities. Our team is always that will need to be made—in Cremains must also be bur- 6. Outdoor Columbarium ready to help you. n light of Church teachings—at the ied —they are not to be placed (cremation) time of a loved one’s death. It in the home, spread on land • Private niche features might also be helpful in preparing or at sea, etc. This need not be some notes on our own funeral. only in a cemetery grave. One popular method to afford cre- Monuments Resources for the Order mains their proper respect is to of Christian Funerals use a columbarium—or niches, 1. Upright monuments Guiding Principles akin to mausoleums—which 2. Flush/flat While death might seem like cemeteries and parishes in more 3. Slant the end of the road, Christians frequency are constructing to 4. Ledger Grave Markers believe it is just a beginning. “In contain cremains. the face of death, the Church It is also preferable that 5. Memorial Trees confidently proclaims that God Catholic graves be marked in 6. Memorial Granite Benches has created each person for eter- some way. Although, burial at 7. Statues nal life and that Jesus, the Son of sea is also permitted—so long 8. Obelisk God, by his death and resurrec- as the body or cremains are in 51 July 2021

Catholic Cemeteries Considering Useful Information Important Questions From the beginning of the in the church, a funeral home, day, anniversary or death date. Who can be buried from the church? in a chapel at the cemetery or Visit: www.formationre- Can those who have died as a result of suicide be buried Church, Christian funeral even at the graveside. imagined.org/funeral-norms from the church? rites and burial have been • The vigil for the dead is intend- What do we do with Can someone who has been unable to attend church because an important spiritual and ed to be dedicated to prayer for the cremated remains the deceased. after the funeral? of living in a nursing home still be buried from a parish pastoral practice. This page church? • It is customary to distribute The cremated remains must Why does the church not sacramentally anoint bodies is designed to introduce you some kind of remembrance always be treated with respect, the card with a prayer, Scripture same respect we attribute to the after death? to the revised funeral norms passage or holy image. body. After the funeral they are to At the time of death, whom do we call to set things for the Diocese of Bridgeport be interred or entombed, prefera- in motion? • A vigil is often a fitting time for bly in a Catholic cemetery, mau- and related resources. those wishing to speak a word soleum or columbarium. The Rite What are the funeral rites? in memory or in honor of the of Committal should accompany deceased. this action. They should never be Are catholics allowed to be cremated? Tips to Remember separated or scattered or disposed • Mass of Christian Burial offers in any way other than a dignified Who can read the readings at the funeral Mass? • There should be direct commu- a selection of readings, prayers, interment or entombment. nication with the parish and What music is allowed? music and liturgical roles to be funeral home. Perhaps someone chosen and often performed by How many interments can be appointed within the Can we have a eulogy? family members. are permitted in a grave? family to be the point person. Are priests the only ones who can lead the scripture service • A centuries-old custom is • Maximum of three (3) crema- or the cemetery service? • The Church’s preference is that to celebrate a Mass for the tions per individual grave lot, Catholics be buried in the con- deceased on the one-month with a casket burial. (grave is What do we do with the cremated remains after the funeral? secrated ground of a Catholic anniversary of their death, considered closed) cemetery, but other cemeteries Can we plan our funeral arrangements months or years called a Month’s Mind Mass. in advance? may be chosen. • Grave without a casket burial, • It is customary to arrange maximum of four (4) crema- • Cremation is allowed, so long What is the difference between a funeral Mass and for Mass intentions for the tions may be interred. (grave is as it isn’t chosen to deny hope a memorial Mass? deceased, perhaps on their birth- considered closed) n in the resurrection of the body. The Church’s tradition recom- Are funeral Masses allowed in funeral homes? mends burial over cremation, Why can’t we schedule the funeral in the parish when and cremains must also be we want it? interred in the ground or a columbarium—not placed in Are there some days were funerals are not allowed the home or scattered. by the church?

• If burial of the body is chosen, Is there a fee to the church? the funeral is often held within a few days. Can we include secular songs which the family chooses because they held special significance for the deceased? • If Mass is not chosen, a funeral Do such songs have a proper place in the funeral liturgy? Liturgy of the Word and final commendation of the deceased Why are we encouraged to pray for the dead? is celebrated and can be done Can I purchase a grave/crypt before I go to a funeral home? Once I purchase my grave are there any additional expenses? Does the cemetery Can I purchase my monument from the cemetery directly? What happens if a loved one passes during winter? have payment plans? Can I plant flowers on my loved ones grave? Does the cemetery have payment plans? Yes, we have many flexible payment plans for burial lots, crypts, and monuments. Do I need a foundation for my monument? The Advisors at the Catholic Cemeteries Office of the Diocese of Bridgeport can answer your questions and assist in planning your future arrangements needs. How many interments are permitted in a grave? Contact them at 203.742.1450, option 5 or [email protected]. For answers to these and other questions visit Visit www.bridgeportdiocese.org/cemeteries/burial-options. www.bridgeportdiocese.org/cemeteries/faqs