Inside this issue

3 First Synod listening session held in Stamford

20 The girls of summer ND vs KC softball

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By and opinions of the participants of this first listening session. more constructively The evening of Monday, May As you can see from this sam- Much more prayer, pilgrim- 5, was truly beautiful. After a pling of the listening session’s ages, study of the saints, etc. long wait spring finally arrived comments, many people from A strong voice on social justice and the weather could not have various walks of life contributed issues been nicer. When I arrived at to the richness of this meeting. Trinity High School in Stamford, Personally, I was impressed with More use of Christian the parking lot was almost full the mutual respect and considerate contemporary music and you could see many excited manner the comments were made. people. That evening was the first Sometimes the speakers brought The meeting was divided into Our has made a concerted Things that we already have of many listening sessions we had up opposite points, and yet all three segments, each reflecting on effort to welcome people back to but need improvement… put together prior to the Fourth were given a chance to express one of the following questions: our parish and it has been very (Question #3) Diocesan Synod. The auditorium their ideas freely, without being 1. The strengths of the effective Transparency of the diocese diocesan ministries are… The Eucharist is available every The quality of the preaching day in most parishes 2. I would like to see the new of our priests. We need cat- diocesan outreach in… echesis from the pulpit I would like to see the diocese More frequent publication 3. The diocese should improve outreach to… (Question #2) the ministry by… of Fairfield County Catholic Connecting between the subur- Each person was allotted More opportunities for young ban parishes and the inter-city adults to meet together about 1-2 minutes to present parishes their points. Thanks to the Use more women theologians many volunteers helping with Find a way to have young to catechize adults logistics, the meeting was con- married couples more involved Catholic education…more ducted quite efficiently. in our parishes teaching orders of religious Here are some comments Use music that young people to come to our diocese made at that session: can relate to Technology is very important Improve religious education to What’s the job of the pastor… The strengths of the include much more technology diocese are… (Question #1) needs to communicate more More of a centralized use of with his parishioners St. Catherine Academy religious education textbooks in the school was filling nicely, judged. On occasion, spontaneous provides an excellent service How the chancery communi- in parishes and exploration cates with the parishes and people seemed friendly and applause broke out after a com- The faith of the people of what appeals to young people We need to find a way to have interested in the event. They ment. Since the purpose of the We have so many churches Facilitate more women have a more obvious came mostly from Stamford, session was for me and the Synod available; it’s easy for families More consolidation for youth role in our parishes though other towns and parishes Commission to listen, there were to receive the sacraments were represented as well. I did no comments or answers made, outreach: social events, religious Evangelization of our adults not count all those present, but except my final remarks. Many laity serve in any way education…share our resources. they can for us We need more Adoration it looked like we had about two What happens next? The input Outreach to survivors of sexual Chapels, more time together Generosity of our parishioners hundred attendees. from all listening sessions and the abuse as a community A few minutes past 7:30 pm online forms will be processed Very impressed by the strength More Bible study classes We need to get families back the meeting began. On the stage by the Synod Commission to of Catholic education and education for adults to prayer again. That is what’s there was a long table. Next to place all comments into proper Religious education programs More of an outreach in getting going to bring people back me were the members of the categories, i.e. “liturgy,” “youth” are very good Catholics to come back to Church Synod Commission: Damien or “administration.” Then study We need to reach out to Volunteer service in our parish O’Connor, Carol Pinard, committees will examine these Create more curiosity within people who are very angry (for is exceptional John DiTaranto, Martha Missiner comments and present them adults to encourage them to want whatever reason). I’m tired for and Msgr. Dariusz Zielonka, who to the General Delegates who Financial transparency to learn more about their faith having to apologize for being a ran the meeting. All of us were will discuss them at the Synod’s of the bishop Engage with our secular culture Catholic n there to listen to the comments ➤ continued on page 12

ON THE COVER | CONTENTS DIOCESAN SEMINARIANS ASSIST 5 LADIES LUNCHEON 21 FOUNDING A SEMINARY with the lighting of the Paschal Candle Sister Magnetti honored Msgr. DiGiovanni remembers at the Easter Vigil Mass at St. Augustine Inside this issue Cathedral. St. John Fisher Seminary was 6 CARDINAL RAYMOND BURKE 23 BUILDING A CULTURE OF VOCATIONS founded in 1989 by Bishop Edward M. Egan Speaking out for life Father Sam Kachuba “on being called” First Synod listening for young men between the ages of 18-38 3 session held in Stamford who are discerning a vocation to the diocesan priesthood. Originally located on Daniels Farm 10 A PILGRIMAGE TO FATIMA 25 BROTHER PRIESTS

The girls of summer 20 ND vs KC softball Road in Trumbull, it moved to Stamford Damien O’Connor reflects Celebrating priest jubilarians Please visit us on: in 1989. Today, 19 men are part of the

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Securities andMember Advisory FINRA/SIPC, Services offered and athrough Registered National Investment Planning Advisor. Corporation (NPC), Catholic Way investments and NPC are separate and unrelated companies. 3 May 2014 Local News Three men ordained to the priesthood BRIDGEPORT—It has been a and nourish their growth in faith. year of “firsts” for Bishop Frank “I am honored, humbled, and J. Caggiano. But he’s been in happy to call these three men the Diocese of Bridgeport long ‘my brother priests,’” says Father enough now to have had the Robert Kinnally, director of opportunity for his first “second.” vocations and of St. John On May 17, in St. Augustine Fisher Seminary. “Chris, Andy, Cathedral, he performed one of and Rob have been faithfully the most fulfilling duties in the and prayerfully engaged in their life of a bishop—the ordination formation from the very begin- of three young men as priests for ning. As priests, they will use the the Diocese of Bridgeport. This is many gifts God has given them Bishop Caggiano’s second ordina- to bring people closer to Christ, tion; last December he ordained and the joy that they exude in Father Rolando Arias to the serving God’s people has—and priesthood. will continue to be —inspiring In addition to their formal and transforming. How blessed is theological studies, all three of the Church of Bridgeport to have Father Christopher Perrella Father Andrew Vill Father Robert Wolfe this May’s new priests have spent these three new priests.” time at St. John Fisher Seminary Father Christopher J. Perrella Hampshire where his parents are sider a vocation to the priesthood his entry into the Diocese of where they had the opportu- Father Christopher Perrella, members of Sainte Marie Parish during college at the Franciscan Bridgeport. Exploring this dio- nitygrow in faith as perceptive 26, is one of three children of in Manchester. University of Steubenville, Ohio. cese, he spent the summer after and well-balanced men. The Frank and Anne Perrella. He was An energetic young man with He graduated in 2010 with a graduation at St. Pius X Parish formation experience at Fisher is born in , Pa., and a love of playing ultimate Frisbee bachelor’s degree in philosophy. in Fairfield before entering designed to leave an imprint on grew up in Amherst, N.H. His and a second degree black belt A visit to St. John Fisher Mount St. Mary Seminary in their conscience and character family members still live in New in Taekwondo, he began to con- Seminary in Stamford led to ➤ continued on page 6 Bishop listens to Stamford area Catholics By BRIAN D. WALLACE the level of their communications Upcoming Synod by improving website and using Welcoming back Catholics new social media to reach out to Listening Sessions who have left the Church, inspir- young people and families. Monday, June 2, at 7:30 pm ing the young to grow in the faith, While speakers praised their Vicariate III—St. Thomas, and pooling resources between parishes, they said they would Fairfield parishes to improve religious like to see them become more Sunday, June 8, at 5:00 pm education for adults and children welcoming to young people. They Spanish Community—The were among the major concerns at would also like more sharing Catholic Center (in Spanish) the first listening session of Synod and fewer boundaries between Tuesday, June 17, at 7:30 pm 2014, held at Trinity Catholic parishes and their programs. One Vicariate IV—St. Catherine, High School in Stamford. woman suggested that suburban Trumbull In a little over 90 minutes, parishes should “twin” with inner Saturday, June 21, at 1:00 pm the more than 200 laity, priests city parishes so that both could Vicariate V—Immaculate and religious men and women learn more from each other and High School, Danbury who came out for the first session TIME FOR LISTENING—Bishop Caggiano (center left) and Msgr. Dariusz share their lives and faith. made 98 comments about the life Zielonka (center right), Synod 2014 director, were joined by a panel of Synod Some who took the micro- said she would like to see at least of faith in Fairfield County. Commission members including (l-r) Martha Missimer of St. Patrick Parish in phone said the Church was not two “general absolution” services Taking their turns to speak, Redding Ridge; Deacon John DiTaranto of St. Jude Parish in Monroe; Carol doing a good job of capturing the a year similar to those held in the Catholics from the Stamford area Pinard of St. Aloysius Parish in New Canaan; and Damien O’Connor, senior idealism and energy of youth, dioceses she had visited. Later shared their thoughts with Bishop director of the diocesan Office of Pastoral Services. More than 200 turned out which is often seen in their com- on in the evening, a man who to share their thoughts and hopes for the Church. (Photo by Amy Mortensen) Caggiano and Synod Commission mitment to social change. Others had converted to Catholicism members on the strengths of seemed baffled that their own chil- at the age of 53 said that one of current diocesan ministries, the walked through the audience to Catholics across the diocese on a dren or family members stopped the great gifts of the Church was opportunity for new outreach, and give a-hand-held microphone to daily basis. They were also proud attending Mass, and they wanted “one-on-one confession” and that the need to improve existing min- the speakers. All of the comments of the Church’s outreach to hospi- to see them back in the Church. he was not interested in general istries and practices. were also recorded to incorporate tals, prisons and the poor who are The range of comments absolution. The listening session was them into topics for the synod. served in diocesan soup kitchens. also pointed out some of the When one speaker said that moderated by Msgr. Dariusz Most speakers took the oppor- Speakers asked for improved challenges ahead as the synod she would like to see the diocese Zielonka, synod director, who tunity to praise their and catechesis for adults, more Bible seeks to renew the life of faith in much more active in interfaith moved the evening along in a priests, to offer strong support Study groups, and the use of the diocese. gatherings, another said he would brisk and cordial way to enable for Catholic education, and to contemporary Christian music to One woman who said she did like to see the diocese much more as many speakers as possible express their gratitude that the engage young people. They also extensive traveling and attended active in winning back Catholics to make comments. Volunteers sacraments are readily available to said that parishes should upgrade Masses in many different dioceses ➤ continued on page 12 4 May 2014 Building Bridges in Faith and Charity ‘Equipping the chosen’ There is something extraor- beside Trinity Catholic High tainly chosen or called by God to and meeting often with a dinary about knowing you were School. Currently there are a total the priesthood and, second, they spiritual director. created for a special purpose and of 20 seminarians in our diocese are receiving excellent formation The second is intel- even more extraordinary when with eight men living there and in preparing them for the priest- lectual: continuing to that purpose is revealed to you! 12 men attending major seminar- hood. That formation is thanks to pursue education on the Recently sharing lunch with a ies throughout the the efforts of many. undergraduate or gradu- few seminarians at the St. John or at the American Pontifical Father Bob Kinnally, the rector ate level as well as com- Fisher Seminary in Stamford, we College in . A small num- of St. John Fisher and director of pleting rigorous studies in were very moved listening to their ber of those men come directly seminarian formation, and Father theology and philosophy. inspiring stories of discerning the out of high school (maybe one Sam Kachuba, director of voca- The third pillar of vocation of the priesthood. or two per year) and the rest tions, are two who devote count- formation is human: liv- As each story was shared, the have worked in various capaci- less hours in preparing our semi- ing in community with simple phrase “God does not ties before hearing a call to the narians. Father Bob explained their seminarian broth- choose the equipped; he equips priesthood. The men we met to us that St. John Fisher is a ers is an important way the chosen” must have run came from the work force and safe place for men to discern and for each man to grow, through our minds 100 times. We are bringing invaluable experi- study for the priesthood. Some are to be respectful of every Cece and Mike Donoghue quote that mantra to our children ence to their priestly formation finishing up their four-year under- person, care for his own often and, talking with the semi- and to our diocese. They were graduate degree or pursuing their well-being and become a tour St. John Fisher Seminary narians, that remark resonated so college administrators, chemists, graduate degree at Sacred Heart good leader. 2014 Appeal Chair Couple perfectly and altogether true. We, teachers, engineers, musicians University, or The last is pastoral: indeed, were in the company of and lay parish ministers. While Fordham University. actively working in the many diocese as priests, it is clear to us incredible young men whom God their previous life experience will All of the seminarians are ministries of our diocese, the men that the future is bright for the has called, and God is masterfully certainly be an asset to them in learning what Father Bob calls are engaged with the poor and Diocese of Bridgeport. We are equipping to serve our diocese. their pastoral lives, what struck us “The Four Pillars of Formation.” the sick as well as becoming inte- confident, knowing that when Spoiler Alert: the Diocese of as most inspiring was the devo- The first pillar is spiritual: grated into parishes and schools. we give to the Bishop’s Appeal Bridgeport has some awesome tion and complete surrendering to developing a close prayerful, spiri- Their experiences prepare them we are active participants in the men in formation for the priest- the Holy Spirit and prayerfulness tual relationship with God. This is for a life of pastoral ministry. formation of our new priests. We hood! We are impressed and these men exhibited. cultivated through daily celebra- The formation process can are helping to “equip the cho- excited about what the future is Each seminarian we met with tion of the Eucharist, adoration of take anywhere between six and sen.” Nothing could give us more for our diocese, given our pro- had an incandescent openness to the Blessed Sacrament (which is eight years. satisfaction in Building Bridges in spective priests. Christ and could not wait to ful- also open to the public every day After spending the afternoon Faith and Charity than to give to St. John Fisher Seminary is fill his vocation. This means two of the week from 6 am-11 pm), with these fine young men those who are in formation to be located on Newfield Avenue things: first, these men were cer- praying the Liturgy of the Hours diligently preparing to serve our our bridge to Christ. n Cardinal Egan will speak at Fisher’s 25th STAMFORD—Edward of the Basilica of St. John the professor of philosophy at Fairfield Cardinal Egan, former Bishop of Evangelist in Stamford; David University, Dr. Long helped shape Bridgeport, will be the celebrant and Harvey of St. Aloysius Parish in the philosophy curriculum at St. homilist at the 25th Anniversary New Canaan; R. James Long, John Fisher in the very early days Mass for St. John Fisher Seminary, Ph.D., a member of St. Anthony of the seminary program. to be held on June 20 at 6 pm at of Padua Parish in Fairfield; Dr. Long earned his doctorate Assumption Parish in Westport. John J. Pioli, Ph.D. and Liane from the University of Toronto A celebration with musical enter- M. Pioli, Ph.D., of Notre Dame and holds a licentiate in medi- tainment will follow at The Inn at Parish in Easton. eval studies from the Pontifical Longshore in Westport. Dr. Liane Pioli and Dr. John Institute of Medieval Studies. Bishop Frank J. Caggiano will Pioli have provided evaluation He has published nine books preside at Mass and speak during services for incoming seminar- and more than 60 articles on the anniversary reception. ians of the diocese for the past medieval philosophy and has The evening will celebrate 24 years. This contribution to the served as president of the Society the contributions of the many assessment of prospective semi- for Medieval and Renaissance priests and lay leaders who have A GENEROUS OUTPOURING of holy oil blesses the altar of the chapel of narians has been most valuable Philosophy. Dr. Long has supported the growth of St. John St. John Fisher in Stamford. Bishop Egan’s foresight and faith opened the semi- to the vocation ministry. Their received numerous academic Fisher Seminary Residence in nary, which has seen 92 men ordained to the priesthood. thoughtful, thorough and pastoral awards throughout his distin- Trumbull since it was opened by approach to their work has been guished career. He and his wife, Bishop Egan in 1989. Fisher Seminary Residence dur- the lay people who have sup- appreciated by their clients and Wendy, have three sons. Msgr. Stephen DiGiovanni, ing his tenure here,” said Bishop ported St. John Fisher Seminary those responsible for the formation Judith and Philip DeFelice first rector of Fisher and current Caggiano. “To date, 92 men who Residence over the years through of seminarians. They both hold have been members of the St. pastor of the Basilica of St. John resided there have been ordained their gifts to the Annual Appeal Ph.D. degrees from St. John’s John Fisher Seminary family the Evangelist in Stamford, will to the priesthood. It is a living and and numerous voluntary efforts University in Jamaica, NY. The since 1995, when Judy began also be honored for his contribu- enduring legacy that Cardinal Egan on behalf of seminarians. couple have been married for 34 working for Msgr. Stephen tions as a founder of the seminary. has left us and we are blessed to be The celebration will recognize years and have three sons. DiGiovanni, the first rector. As “We are fortunate as a diocese able to celebrate that with him.” six people for their support of St. R. James Long, Ph.D., has been administrative assistant to all sub- that Cardinal Egan had the fore- Bishop Caggiano said he John Fisher over the years: Philip a faculty member at St. John Fisher sequent rectors, she has been very sight and the faith to open St. John was also profoundly grateful for and Judith DeFelice, parishioners Seminary for the past 24 years. A ➤ continued on page 16 5 May 2014 Local News Lunch honors Sister Magnetti

By SUSAN CECERE Anne McCrory; Superintendent Sister Magnetti has spent of Schools Sister Mary Grace much of the last decade serv- Nearly 300 guests turned out Walsh, A.S.C.J., PhD; and Dr. ing as the executive director of at Greenwich Country Club Donna Andrade, academic the Catholic Academies after a for the Fourth Annual Ladies of Fairfield Preparatory School, successful career and ministry Luncheon to benefit the Catholic were among the leaders at the working in the network Academies of Bridgeport. event. of Sacred Heart Schools, The event, which honored The luncheon was under- first as teacher and Sister Joan Magnetti, rscj, headmistress at Stuart FIFTY YEARS IN EDUCATION— written by Paul and Anne- Sister Joan Magnetti, rscj, executive executive director of Cathedral Marie Queally of New Canaan. Country Day School in director of Cathedral Academies, was Academies, for her 50 years Marylou Queally Salvati of New Princeton, N.J., and then honored by Bishop Frank Caggiano and in education, raised more Canaan chaired the event. as headmistress of the 300 guests at the Ladies Luncheon held than $220,000. The funds will Many Sisters from Sr. Convent of the Sacred recently at the Greenwich Country Club. be used to provide scholar- Magnetti’s order travelled from Heart in Greenwich. The event raised $220,000 in scholarship ships for students attending St. as far as Albany and Missouri to The Catholic funds to help students attend Catholic elementary schools in Bridgeport. Ann Academy in Black Rock, attend the tribute. Barbara Rogers, Academies of Bridgeport (Photos by Amy Mortensen) Cathedral Academy in down- rscj, headmistress of Stuart serve 1,025 inner- town Bridgeport and St. Andrew Country Day School, shared with city children in three Academy in the North End. guests heartwarming stories about schools: St. Andrew Academy, more than $2 million in scholar- One hundred percent of Catholic Bishop Frank J. Caggiano Sister Magnetti’s early years as St. Ann Academy and Cathedral ships annually. Academies’ students graduate praised Sister Magnetti for her a cloistered nun and her work in Academy (upper and lower The Diocese of Bridgeport high school, while the Bridgeport leadership and thanked all those Egypt after Vatican II before being schools). More than 65 percent educates children in the Catholic high school graduation rate is in attendance for their support assigned Stateside by her order, of students receive some sort Academies at a cost of $6,000 only 55 percent. And of high of Catholic education in the which has teaching affiliations in of tuition assistance, with the per student, compared to $14,000 school graduates, 99 percent pur- diocese. Diocesan Chancellor 44 countries. Catholic Academies awarding in Bridgeport public schools. sue post-secondary education. n

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Father’s Day Recipient Name: ______A Father’s Day card with gift notice will be sent to your gift recipients. Address______City______State____ Zip______o Please remember my father at Mass. Gift Selected ______o Send a Father’s Day card. Please include on a separate sheet of paper additional gift recipients, their mailing address o and gift selection for each. Please mail back to: Diocese of Bridgeport, Development Office, Do not send a Father’s Day card. 238 Jewett Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06606. Thank you. All gifts are tax deductible as Please make checks payable to: Blessed Gifts applicable by law. For more information please call: 203-416-1479 BG-M 6 May 2014 St. Mary Parish, Norwalk Cardinal Burke: “Suffer with Christ for the sake of the least of our brethren” NORWALK—“There are St. Antoninus was assailed by of grave crisis in the cause of those who tell us that we must deadly confusion and error.” respect for the inviolable dignity exclude from unconditional He noted that St. Antoninus, of human life in our nation and Christ-like love those who are who was known for the holiness in the world, I urge you to con- very small, those who are not of his life as a Dominican friar, tinue to pray to almighty God, productive and those whose brought the same holiness to the especially through the interces- enslavement through manipula- exercise of the office of bishop, sion of Our Lady of Guadalupe, tion and death could mean both ) defending the flock by correcting for deliverance from the horrible cures for diseases and injuries error and instructing the faithful in evils of abortion, euthanasia, the and economic growth for our a by k sound doctrine. B artificial generation of human nation. They have re-designed “Of his shepherd’s care of life, and the destruction of human the mission of Christ, accord- the flock, Dom Guéranger embryos for scientific research,” ing to their own liking, exclud- ichelle exclaimed: ‘How beautiful is Cardinal Burke said. M ing the “least brethren,” said our holy Mother the Church, Speaking directly to Gospel of by Cardinal Raymond Burke, pre- who produces such children as Life Society members, Cardinal fect of the Supreme Tribunal of Antoninus, and has them in read- Burke said, “Your membership hoto the Apostolic Signatura at the (P iness to uphold what is true and brings you face-to-face with the Vatican. Cardinal Raymond Burke withstand what is false.” suffering of Christ for the sake Cardinal Burke visited St. The cardinal told the faithful of his ‘least brethren.’ You are Mary Parish to offer the monthly ness to his love of all men, elicits in the society of Florence in the that in carrying out Christ’s mis- called to share in his suffering, to Pro-Life Mass for the Gospel of misunderstanding and rejection 15th century,” he said in his sion, “daily prayer and participa- make up for what is lacking in his Life Society on May 10. among those who will not accept homily. tion in the sacramental life of the suffering in our time and place, Cardinal Burke helped St. the truth to which we witness. The Mass was celebrated on Church” are the source of our that is, to fulfill your call to bring Mary’s in its fundraising efforts But we must, with Christ, bear the Feast Day of St. Antoninus, inspiration and strength. Christ to the ‘least brethren’ of last year for the renovation of the the sufferings of our brothers and an exemplary Dominican Friar “At the present moment our day.” n church. His visit was an oppor- sisters, especially the innocent who was called by Pope Eugene tunity to see the newly renovated and defenseless. It is only then IV in the fifteenth century to be Ordinations from page 3 church and to greet the hundreds that we know the freedom of lov- Bishop of Florence. Cardinal who came out for the Mass and ing God and our neighbor. It is Burke noted that this was a time Emmitsburg, Md. In 2013, while are members of St. Elizabeth Ann reception. only then that we, with Christ, “when sanctity was rare on the he was in the seminary, he was Seton Parish. His brother and two “Our life in Christ, our daily are the agents of joy and peace in earth and a time of schism when in charge of the Mount2000 High sisters all live in Fairfield County. conversion to Christ and wit- our society, as was St. Antoninus the flock entrusted to the care of School Youth Retreat. Another brother, Christopher, is He deepened his friendship deceased. with seminarians from Fairfield He attended Ridgebury Monday, June 9 County at Mount St. Mary’s Elementary School, East Ridge Middle School and Ridgefield noon shotgun start and found more friends during a summer assignment at St. Rose High School, where he gradu- of Lima Parish in Newtown. St. ated in 2006. After a year at Rose is now his home parish, and the University of Connecticut he will celebrate his first Mass he followed a call to the priest- there. hood, entering St. John Fisher “God has done so much in my Seminary. He graduated from life to bring me to this point,” he Sacred Heart University in says. “Lots of personal growth, Fairfield and completed his bach- lots of suffering, and an ever- elor of sacred theology degree deepening relationship with the at the Pontifical Gregorian Lord. I know God now in ways University in Rome, with resi- that I never knew him before and dence at the North American discovering my vocation to be a College. He plans to return to priest was part of that. As I got Rome to complete a degree at the to know God more closely, I saw Pontifical John Paul II Institute more clearly who he had made for Studies in Marriage and me to be, and that was to be his Family, graduating in 2015. priest.” An Eagle Scout, Father Vill Lake of IsLes Father Perrella will celebrate was named a Vigil Honor mem- at foxwoods Resort Casino his first Mass on May 18 at 12 ber of the Order of the Arrow, noon at St. Rose of Lima. Father Boy Scouting’s National Honor To reserve your foursome or for more information, please contact Marc Montminy, his former Society. He is a 4th Degree mem- anne Whitman at [email protected] or 203-365-4861 home parish pastor, will deliver ber of the . or visit www.lakeofisles.com for course information. the homily. “My time in seminary has Father Andrew A. Vill been one of incredible growth Proceeds support the university scholarship Programs Father Andrew Vill, 25, grew and deepening in my relationship up in Ridgefield where his par- with Christ,” he says. “My ents, Andrew and Angela Vill, ➤ continued on page 10 7 May 2014 Local News Bishop removes Father Stronkowski SHELTON—Bishop Frank Father Stronkowski, 54, attended Arts Commission of the diocese. is properly reviewed, taken to J. Caggiano has asked for and Holy Cross High School in Ministerial Misconduct Board civil authorities if necessary, and accepted the resignation of Father Waterbury and St. Thomas Minor Bishop Caggiano had that responsible and transparent John Stronkowski from his pas- Seminary in Bloomfield. He com- announced the formation of a actions be taken immediately,” toral duties at St. Margaret Mary pleted his seminary studies at Holy Ministerial Misconduct Board in Bishop Caggiano said. Alacoque Parish in Shelton. Apostles Seminary in Cromwell February of this year to review “These new norms are presented In a letter distributed to all and was ordained by Bishop cases involving a priest or dea- for both the protection of our com- parishioners the second weekend Walter W. Curtis in 1985. His first con who is accused of miscon- munity of faithful and for the main- in May, Bishop Caggiano said he appointment was a parochial vicar duct involving another adult. It tenance and protection of the integ- removed Father Stronkowski as a of St. Patrick Parish in Bridgeport reviews cases in which the bishop rity of the priesthood,” he added. result of his “persistent absentee- and he later served at St. Gregory must consider action regarding If a decision is made that a ism from both the rectory and Father John Stronkowski the Great Parish in Danbury. a priest or deacon’s assignment, priest or deacon may return to his the parish and its ministries, his In 1992, he served as adminis- including removal or suspension. ministry or receive a new assign- growing difficulties with both the the Bridgeport Diocese’s 72-year-old trator of Our Lady of Assumption At the time, the bishop said ment, the vicar for clergy will meet staff and lay leaders of the parish diocesan director of Propagation of Parish in Fairfield, and was named that in addition to reviewing with the priests, , staff and and other personal and adminis- the Faith, to serve as St. Margaret pastor of St. Ambrose Parish in adult misconduct not covered by parish lay leaders to review the trative shortcomings. Mary’s temporary administrator. Bridgeport in October 2003. the current review board, the new proposed placement. Parish leaders “Further, I have referred The bishop said he expects to Father Stronkowski put himself panel would also create a mecha- will be briefed with a summary of this issue to the Ministerial appoint a new pastor in June. through college working construc- nism so that parishes, includ- the original offense and a report on Misconduct Advisory Board for Father Saviano is known to tion jobs. He has maintained licens- ing lay leadership, are notified the measures taken. review and recommendation. many parishioners because he has es as an electrician, plumber, and and consulted before a priest or If the assignment is accepted, The board assists me in reviewing filled in at Mass over the years, heating and air conditioning special- deacon is reassigned after being it will ordinarily be made on a cases of clerical misconduct, either and he celebrated the First Holy ist. He is also a licensed health care removed from ministry. provisional basis, requiring that involving adults or that occurs Communion Masses for the parish administrator with a degree from “As I begin my ministry, I the vicar for clergy visit the parish in the exercise of his ministry, on the weekend of May 3-4. the University of Connecticut. think it is important to create new after a six-month period to ascer- and where I must consider action Father John Stronkowski His considerable construction structures to make sure I have the tain the overall assignment. If the regarding that cleric’s assignment, The first priest ordained from background led to his service on the tools and resources to give me report is positive, the assignment including temporary or permanent his hometown of Beacon Falls, board of the Building and Sacred the assurance that any allegation will then be made permanent. n removal or suspension.” Father Stronkowski had been appointed administrator of the parish in September 2012, and Father Lenox to study in Rome was named as pastor in January 2014. He was scheduled to be By PAT HENNESSY Patrick’s and St. Augustine were parish staff, you have begun to formally installed as pastor in combined into one parish in 2012. forge a unified, pastoral vision June. However, a number of par- Father Peter Lenox, adminis- In Rome, Father Lenox will and mission.” ish leaders came forward recently trator of the Cathedral Parish and be enrolled at the Benedictine It is fitting, given both his work to express their concern about his rector of St. Augustine Cathedral, University, the Pontifico Ateneo at the Cathedral and his new frequent absenteeism and leader- has accepted the invitation of Sant’Anselmo and at Pontifical assignment, that two important ship problems. Bishop Frank J. Caggiano to Institute for Sacred Music. organ recitals at St. Augustine will The bishop was also made pursue his pontifical license in “I have chosen Father Lenox mark the conclusion of Father aware of rumors that Fr. liturgical theology and a mas- to pursue this important degree Lenox’ tenure at the Cathedral Stronkowski was engaged in an ters’ degree in liturgical music. because of his intellectual abilities, Parish. On Pentecost Sunday, affair with a woman from the His assignment at the Cathedral great skills as an accomplished June 8, the Greater Bridgeport area, though he denied the rumor. Parish will end on June 30. musician and his unwavering Chapter of the American Guild Based on that meeting, A member of the American fidelity to the Church and its of Organists will have its clos- the bishop met with Father Guild of Organists and a tal- teachings,” said Bishop Caggiano ing concert of the year beginning , as well as artist- Stronkowski on May 2 and asked ented organist in his own right, in a letter to parishioners. at 4 pm. Among the soloists is in-residence at Washington for his resignation. All of the Father Lenox has recently com- The degree will require two Katelyn Emerson, the 2013 recipi- National Cathedral and profes- concerns and allegations will be pleted the first two phases of years to complete, during which ent of the Dr. M. Louise Miller sor of organ at the Catholic brought before the Ministerial the renovation of the Cathedral Father Lenox will be living at the Memorial Scholarship. Dr. Miller University of America. Misconduct Advisory Board. organ and has set the course for Casa Santa Maria, a residence for was the founder of the Bridgeport Richard Hiendlmayr, the Father Stronkowski agreed to the third and final phase. American priests. Chapter of the American Guild of major donor for the organ res- take a leave of absence effective Father Lenox, 38, was “I know he will be greatly Organists. toration, and his family will be immediately, to seek professional ordained in 2000 in St. missed by many of you both at Later that week, Dr. Jeremy present for both these events. help, spend time in prayer and Augustine Cathedral by St. Patrick and St. Augustine Filsell will be the soloist at the The organ is memorialized in to reflect upon his future in the Bishop Edward M. Egan. He churches,” the bishop said. He Dedicatory Recital for the organ honor of his late wife, Alma ministry. served at St. Andrew Parish in asked parishioners to join him on June 13 at 8 pm. Dr. Filsell Schenk Hiendlmayr. The A. Diocesan officials met with Bridgeport, St. Mary Parish in “in offering our heartfelt thanks is an accomplished international Thompson-Allen firm respon- parish lay leaders and staff on Ridgefield, and St. Benedict- to Father Lenox for his wonder- concert artist who was until sible for the organ’s restoration May 5 to listen to concerns and Our Lady of Montserrat Parish ful leadership and hard work on recently principal organist of the will be on hand for these events plan for the future. During the in Stamford. He was named behalf of the Cathedral Parish Basilica of the National Shrine as well. meeting, parish staff reiterated the administrator of St. Patrick and all its parishioners. Since the of the Immaculate Conception (Both organ recitals are free same concerns expressed by the Parish in Bridgeport in 2011 creation of the Cathedral Parish, in Washington, D.C. He is cur- and open to the public. For more volunteer lay leaders. and became administrator of under the leadership of Father rently director of music of the information, call the parish: In the interim, the bishop has the Cathedral Parish when St. Lenox and the members of the Church of the Epiphany in 203.368.6777.) n appointed Father Frederick Saviano, 8 May 2014 World News canonizes Today 55 percent of America’s probably low by several million, John XXIII and John Paul II 35 million Hispanic adults iden- the book notes, because Church An estimated 800,000 pilgrims tify themselves as Catholic, Pew officials were unable to supply were present in Rome when Pope found. As recently as 2010, that an accurate count of Catholics Francis canonized two of his figure was 67 percent. Almost one- in nations where the Church suf- predecessors, Pope John XXIII fourth of all Hispanic adults living fers political repression, such as and Pope John Paul II, during in the US today—24 percent—are China and North Korea. a Mass in St. Peter’s Square on former Catholics. The tendency April 27, Divine Mercy Sunday. to leave the was Christianity disappearing They filled St. Peter’s, the streets most pronounced among younger in Iraq around it and the bridges over the Hispanics, suggesting that the trend BAGDAD, Iraq— The Tiber River. could accelerate. Iraqi Chaldean Patriarch, Louis Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI When asked why they had left Raphael Sako I, is seriously con- attended the Mass, along with 150 the Catholic Church, a majority cerned over the continuing decline cardinals, 1,000 , and del- of respondents (55 percent) said of Christian presence in the coun- egates from over 90 nations. His that they had merely “drifted try. “In 10 years there will only be presence on the altar with them away,” and 52 percent said they a few thousand Christians left in was as remarkable as the historic had ceased to believe the teach- Iraq,” he said after visiting com- canonization itself. During the ings of the Church. However, a munities throughout the country. Mass, he sat off to the side of the large number reported that they The Iraqi Christian community altar with other cardinals, wear- BANNERS CELEBRATING the new saints were affixed to the entrance of St. had found another religious com- had more than a million followers, ing the same white vestments and Lawrence Parish, Shelton, just ahead of the canonization ceremony in Rome. munity that was responsive to 600 thousand in Baghdad alone, white bishops’ miter as the others. their needs. now they have less than 400 thou- The only difference was he had a A rising number of Hispanic white skullcap on rather than red. “For the honor of the Blessed afraid to look upon the wounds Americans identify themselves Pope John XXIII reigned Trinity, the exaltation of the of Jesus, to touch his torn hands as Protestant, with 16 percent from 1958-1963 and convened Catholic faith and the increase of and his pierced side,” Pope identifying with the Evangelical the . The the Christian life, by the authority Francis preached during his hom- Protestant tradition. The Pew meetings brought the Church into of our Lord Jesus Christ, and of ily. “They were not ashamed of survey found that among these the modern era by allowing Mass the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, the flesh of Christ, they were not Evangelical Hispanics, the level to be celebrated in local languag- and our own, after due delibera- scandalized by him, by his cross; of religious practice was higher es rather than Latin and encour- tion and frequent prayer for divine they did not despise the flesh of than among Hispanic Catholics. aged greater dialogue with people assistance, and having sought the their brother, because they saw Because Hispanic immigrants of other faiths, particularly . counsel of many of our brother Jesus in every person who suffers make up an increasing propor- During his globe-trotting, quarter- bishops, we declare and define and struggles. These were two tion of the U.S. population, century papacy, Pope John Paul Blessed John XXIII and John men of courage, filled with the Hispanics account for a rising II (1978-2005) helped topple com- Paul II be saints and we enroll parrhesia [boldness] of the Holy share of the country’s Catholics, munism and invigorated a new them among the saints, decreeing Spirit, and they bore witness in spite of the marked attrition. generation of Catholics. that they are to be venerated as before the Church and the world In 2013, Pew reports, 33 percent Great Immediately prior to the can- such by the whole Church. In the to God’s goodness and mercy.” of American Catholics were onization, which took place at the name of the Father, and of the “They were priests and bishops Hispanic, and that figure was news! beginning of the Mass, the faith- Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” and popes of the 20th century,” still rising. If Hispanic immigra- ful were invited to sing hymns As soon as he finished, Pope Francis continued. “They tion continues at a similar pace, The “FCC Mobile” app is and recite the Chaplet of Divine applause broke out from the lived through the tragic events of and the Hispanic flight from the now available in the Google Mercy. During the ceremony, crowd in St. Peter’s and beyond. that century, but they were not Catholic Church continues, the Play Store and the Apple Pope Francis took a deep breath Following the rite, members overwhelmed by them. Pew report observes that “a day iTunes/App Store. Here is and paused for a moment before of St. John XXIII’s family and a “In these two men, who looked could come when a majority of how you can download and reciting the formula of canoniza- woman healed through St. John upon the wounds of Christ and Catholics in the United States get the app: tion in Latin, as if moved by the Paul’s intercession brought relics bore witness to his mercy, there will be Hispanic, even though the history he was about to make in of the saints to Pope Francis. dwelt a living hope and an inde- majority of Hispanics might no Apple Devices: canonizing two popes at once: The two saints “were not scribable and glorious joy,” Pope longer be Catholic.” Open the App Store on your Francis added. “It is the hope Apple device. and the joy which the risen Christ World’s Catholic population Tap search and type Fairfield Your CT-Based, American Express bestows on his disciples, the hope continues to grow County Catholic and tap Travel® Agency Specializing and the joy which nothing and no —The world’s search. in Pilgrimage, Group, Family, one can take from them.” Catholic population grew in 2013 The results should return a and Senior Travel He praised both Popes for by slightly more than the overall single result: cooperating with the Holy Spirit population, the latest Statistical • August 24, 2014 - 12-Day Mediterranean Cruise: with Fr. 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However, the number of Tap search and type Fairfield Town and 2 nights at Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge; full day Cape Hispanic Americans leaving women religious continued a long County Catholic and tap Peninsula tour, and safari adventures in open game vehicles and on Church in rising numbers decline, and the number of semi- search. foot. Starting from $2999 pp double. WASHINGTON, D.C.— narians, which had risen in recent The results should return a Hispanic Americans are increas- years, fell off slightly. Evening and Weekend Appointments Available single result: ingly likely to leave the Catholic The Yearbook records a popu- Locate and tap install to get the Call 203-402-0632 • [email protected] Church, a major survey by the lation of 1.228 billion Catholics Fairfield County Catholic App. www.RoyalServiceTravel.com Pew Research Center has shown. at the close of 2012. That count is 9 May 2014 World News sand in the whole country. The main causes of this massive migra- tion are poor security, increased death threats against Christians Commencement speakers announced from Islamists and the seizure of their property by armed groups. Yale chaplain is speaker at tificates of advanced study, and 29 address to the graduates and their the University of Bridgeport. The Chaldean Patriarch, Sako Fairfield Commencement doctorates. Honorary degrees will family and friends. Henkel is the president and I said: “Christians are those who FAIRFIELD—Fairfield also be awarded to both speakers At the undergraduate com- CEO of Ascension Health and suffer most from the upsurge in University has announced and three other recipients: Sister mencement ceremonies, an hon- also serves as an executive violence across Iraq.” the speakers and honorary Elizabeth A. Johnson, C.S.J.; orary Doctor of Humane Letters vice president of Ascension. degree recipients for its 64th Father John W. Padberg, S.J.; degree will be presented to Ernie Ascension Health includes U.S. Supreme Court OKs Commencement, taking place and John S. Santa, founder of the Anastos, Emmy award-winning 1,900 health facilities in 23 prayers at public meetings on Sunday, May 18, on the Malta Justice Initiative. news anchor for the Fox flagship states. WASHINGTON, D.C.—The university campus of Fairfield station, WNYW-TV, in New Bishop Frank J. Caggiano U.S. Supreme Court, in a split University. Sacred Heart University set York. James Costello, retired will deliver the invocation. decision announced on May 5, This year’s speakers are for 48th Commencement comptroller for General Electric St. Vincent’s will award a has ruled that prayers offered at Sharon M.K. Kugler, University FAIRFIELD—Sacred Heart and former member of the SHU total of 154 degrees: 28 bach- public meetings do not violate Chaplain of , University in Fairfield will hold Board of Trustees, will receive an elor of science in nursing; 105 the constitutional prohibition on who will address the under- its 48th commencement exercises honorary Doctor of Laws degree. associate of science in nurs- establishment of religion. graduates, and Mary Ann with graduate commencement Anastos will deliver the com- ing; five bachelor of science “The inclusion of a brief, cer- Christopher ’79, MSN, RN, set for Saturday, May 17, at 1 mencement address. in radiological sciences; one emonial prayer as part of a larger FAAN, president and CEO of pm and undergraduate to fol- The SHU class of 2014 associate of sciences in general exercise in civic recognition sug- the Visiting Nurse Service of low on Sunday, May 18, 10:30 includes 837 undergraduates who studies; and 15 associate of sci- gests that its purpose and effect , the nation’s larg- am. This year, the ceremonies will be receiving associate and ence in radiography. are to acknowledge religious est not-for-profit home-and for both graduate and under- bachelor’s degrees, and 774 grad- Susan L. Davis, Ed.D., leaders and the institutions they community-based health care graduate students will take place uate students who have earned R.N., former president/CEO of represent, rather than to exclude organization, who will speak at at the Webster Bank Arena in master’s degrees, professional St. Vincent’s Health Services, or coerce nonbelievers,” wrote the graduate ceremony. Bridgeport. certificates and doctorates. will be awarded an Honorary Justice Anthony Kennedy for The 2014 Commencement During the Graduate Doctorate of Humane Letters in the majority in a 5-4 decision. takes place on Bellarmine Commencement, SHU will pres- Ascension health executive recognition of her many years The court upheld the legality of Lawn. The undergraduate cer- ent Sister Kathleen Deignan, to speak at St. Vincent’s of service to St. Vincent’s and prayers offered by officials of emony begins at 9:30 am, fol- C.N.D., director of the Iona College 22nd her support for St. Vincent’s the town of Greece, New York. lowed at 3 pm by the graduate Spirituality Institute and profes- Robert J. Henkel, FACHE, College. Marianne Laska, Although most prayers were ceremony. sor of religious studies, with an will be the speaker at St. Vincent’s RN of Stratford, chair of the Christian in their wording, the The total number of expected Honorary Doctor of Humane College Commencement College’s Board of Trustees, will Supreme Court found no inten- degrees to be awarded are: 897 Letters degree. Sister Kathleen Ceremony set for Friday, May receive the Vincentian Award tion to exclude non-Christians or bachelor’s, 354 master’s, 14 cer- will also deliver the keynote 23, at 10 am at Bernhard Hall of for outstanding service. n pressure them to convert. n

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By DAMIEN O’CONNOR yes, the Communion of Saints The room was as it always really does exist and that the had been, and the chair that the My pilgrimage to Fatima Blessed Mother and Our Lord are Blessed Mother sat in during the began long before I even knew literally with us at all times. I had apparitions was still there. It was that I would be going. This is only to ask and then do my part: deeply moving for all of us, and only possible if one understands open my eyes and believe. Bishop Caggiano led the pilgrims that a pilgrimage is not a destina- I traveled to Fatima because in a Rosary in the room. Jacinta tion but a journey. It’s an encoun- I needed to give thanks to Our stayed at the orphanage for 13 ter with Christ through the inter- Lady and many saints for inter- days. At this point of our pilgrim- cession of the Blessed Mother ceding for me last year. Having age, little surprised me anymore accompanied by the saints. It is been on other pilgrimages, I knew regarding the interconnectedness an awakening to the reality that that Our Lord would bless me of Our Lady and the events that the entire Communion of Saints far more than my gratitude could are associated with Fatima. exists so that they may intercede express. The experience for me This reality was an important for us for one single purpose: that was deeply personal and grace- reminder to me that my life is no we may know the joy of surren- filled. different. If I surrender myself to dering our lives to Jesus Christ. While en route to Fatima, our Lord through the intercession In July of 2013, I was diag- just after landing in Portugal, of the Blessed Mother (daily), I nosed with prostate cancer and we stopped in Santarem at the have discovered that there is a needed to have a radical prosta- Church of the Holy Miracle, A JOURNEY OF THE HEART AND SOUL—“I traveled to Fatima because web of constant interconnected tectomy two months later. The where there is a Eucharistic I need to give thanks to Our Lady,” says Damien O’Connor of his recent trip blessings in which their presence day I was diagnosed was one of miracle dating back to the 13th to Fatima after recovering from surgery. “The experience for me was deeply is palpably clear. personal and grace-filled.” Bishop Frank J. Caggiano led the seven–day pilgrim- the darker days of my life. century. I was struck by the fact age, which included 25 people from the Diocese of Bridgeport along with family It was both sad and joyful to After getting the courage to call that although I came to Fatima and friends from . leave Fatima. Sad to be leaving my wife, we had very few words to thank Our Lady, she imme- and joyful to know (more firmly over the phone but only tears. diately brought our group to her than ever) that she is always We decided to meet at our parish Son. Bishop Caggiano stressed in apparition sites of Our Lady was Padua at the church where he with me. The bishop was right. (St. Ann, Bridgeport) because we his homily at the church that we profoundly moving. The Blessed was born in Lisbon. This is nor- I believe we all received a mes- couldn’t think of anywhere else must pray and open our hearts Mother’s presence could literally mally extremely rare but they sage from Our Lady. As usual, I to meet that would be completely so that we may know why the be felt. Much like a child with graciously offered the opportunity do not feel worthy of what I was private. I don’t remember us pray- Blessed Mother brought us here. his mother, I simply wanted to to Bishop Caggiano and then to asked but my message was simply ing at all but just talking in the Each day Mass was cel- stay with her because it was very our group. If that wasn’t enough, this, “Live your faith with divine front left pew. As I reflect back, ebrated for our group. I have no comforting and I felt completely we then traveled to the orphanage courage and bring people back to I’m reminded that we were sitting words to express the graces we secure. where Jacinta (one of the three my Son.” right across from a large statue received from the homilies of We were all blessed by the children who had multiple appa- (Damien O’Connor is director of of the Blessed Mother. Little did Bishop Caggiano and Father Don opportunity to venerate a first ritions of the Blessed Mother) the Office for Pastoral Services for the I know that within less than 24 Guglielmi. Most of us would class relic of St. Anthony of stayed just before she died. Diocese of Bridgeport.) n hours I would begin to experience express that it seemed as if each what I called “unusual blessings” homily was directed to us as indi- Ordinations from page 6 that I believe were all orchestrated viduals. by Our Lady. Although we knew what our vocation to serve as his priest in September of that year, and Wolfe’s time there as a student. In my emptiness and fear, I itinerary was, I was in awe of the has been the greatest joy of my graduated from Sacred Heart “I first thought about the pos- felt that I had no choice but to unexpected blessings that were life. The blessings which he has University in Fairfield, where sibility of priesthood when I was completely abandon myself to abundant throughout each day. poured out upon me are innu- he was a member of the Delta only eight years old,” he recalls. God. What I discovered was that Some blessings were subtle and merable. I look forward to many Epsilon Sigma National Honor “I became an altar server not long through my weakness, my eyes some were not. Celebrating Mass years of hard work and faithful Society, in 2010. after that. I can truly say that I were opened to the reality that and praying frequently at the service to God in the Diocese of He has been in formation for consider this time spent growing Bridgeport.” the priesthood at the Pontifical up around the altar and the Mass Father Vill will celebrate North American College in Rome as the source of my priestly voca- his first Mass on May 18 at since 2010. After completing three tion. During my freshman year at 11:30 am at St. Elizabeth Ann years of studies at the Pontifical St. Joseph High School, as I con- Seton. Father Nick Cirillo, pas- Gregorian University, he enrolled tinued to discern the Lord’s will tor of St. Edward the Confessor in the licentiate program at the for my life, I became convinced Parish in New Fairfield, will be Pontifical Athenaeum of St. that I was, in fact, being called to the homilist. Anselm, to which he will return priesthood. Twelve years of edu- Father Robert L. Wolfe this fall for his final year of studies. cation, formation, conversation, Father Robert Wolfe, 25, grew Father Wolfe will celebrate and spiritual growth have brought up in Shelton where his parents his first Mass at St. Joseph’s on me to this great day and I have Robert and Pamela and his May 18 at 2 pm. Father Joseph nothing but gratitude and joy in brother Nicklaus are still active Marcello, priest secretary to my heart for the many graces that members of St. Joseph Parish. He Archbishop William E. Lori of God, in his abundant mercy, has graduated from St. Joseph School the Archdiocese of Baltimore, will given me throughout these years in 2002 and received the Louis be the homilist. Father Marcello of preparation. I rejoice in the V. Gerstner Scholarship to St. served both as assistant direc- mercy and the love of God and Joseph High School in Trumbull, tor of vocations in this diocese look forward to the many won- graduating in 2006. and as spiritual director of St. drous things he has in store for He entered St. John Fisher Joseph High School during Father me in my priesthood!” n 11 May 2014 Larry Kudlow Speaks Free market puts food on the table of the poor

By FATHER COLIN the Stamford area, but rather that across the country has now risen MCKENNA people in need of food assistance to $316 billion annually. With and other services have come to his trademark patriotic zeal, he Applying free-market eco- know that they can rely on the said, “No other nation on earth nomic principles globally and help provided by New Covenant comes close to the generosity of locally can reduce poverty and House, and they seek it out. America.” the number of people suffer- “The area’s only soup kitchen Coming full-circle to his ing from food insecurity, said is a lifeline that provides so many capitalist creed, Kudlow said that economist and noted TV and people with what is often their “free-market capitalism is the BREAKFAST FOR THE POOR—More than 200 friends of New Covenant radio personality Larry Kudlow only meal of the best system we House of Hospitality in Stamford helped to raise $50,000 by attending the at the New Covenant House of day,” he said. know for reduc- recent celebrity breakfast. Economist and TV commentator Larry Kudlow, a Hospitality celebrity breakfast, Kudlow, a “We are helping ing poverty in member of St. Patrick Parish in Redding, said that the global shift toward free held recently at the Woodway member of St. America and markets has reduced abject poverty around the world. Country Club. Patrick Parish to give people globally.” He (Photo by Michelle Babyak) More than 200 business, politi- in Redding, cited that due cal, religious and non-profit lead- praised New a second chance.” to a global shift thirty years.” greater Stamford area. It serves ers gathered at the early-morning Covenant toward the free- He urged all who can to give two hot meals a day—lunch and event, which raised over $50,000 House, which market, abject generously to New Covenant dinner—365 days a year to any- for the Stamford-based soup “empowers people and provides worldwide poverty has been House. “Being able to help those one in need. In the 34 years since kitchen sponsored by Catholic them dignity,” while adding that greatly reduced. in need,” he said, “is a great gift.” it first opened, a growing number Charities of the Diocese of by reducing barriers to success “The middle-classes in devel- Looking around the room of people have arrived each day Bridgeport. for entrepreneurs and businesses oping economies in Asia, Africa near the end of the event, seeking services that include the During the event, Catholic in Fairfield County, it may be and South America have chosen Barber pointed out that if each soup kitchen, a breakfast-to-go Charities also announced plans for possible to help people live more a market-based free-enterprise attendee contributed $500 to the program, a food pantry and an the relocation of New Covenant independently. approach to their economies,” he cause, they could together raise on-site medical clinic. House to an 8,200 square foot Kudkow told the gathering said. To support his belief that a $100,000 that morning for New (New Covenant House of facility just around the corner at that he does not advocate a sys- rising economic tide can raise all Covenant House. There were Hospitality is currently located 174 Richmond Hill Avenue to tem in which the rich get richer boats, Kudlow said that “while donation envelopes on each table, at 90 Fairfield Avenue in Stamford. allow for expansion of services. while the poor get poorer. Rather, middle-classes around the world and they began to circulate in Brian Jenkins is executive director. Al Barber, president of he believes that capitalism is the have been expanding, those liv- response to his invitation. For information, call 203.964.8228, Catholic Charities, said that economic system capable of cre- ing on $1 dollar a day or less has New Covenant House is the email [email protected] or visit “ten years ago we were serving ating an economic tide that can dropped by 80% over the last only soup kitchen serving the www.nchstamford.org.) n 200,000 meals a year. Now we “raise all boats.” are serving 700,000 meals a year Both Kudlow and Barber both at New Covenant House.” made it clear in their respective Barber said the increase is messages that helping the poor Saint Mary’s Church probably not due to an increase and feeding the hungry is a cru- “The Mother Church of Norwalk” | 669 West Ave., Norwalk | Est. 1848 | www.stmarynorwalk.net | 203.866.5546 in the number of poor people in cial responsibility for all people of good faith, especially those Pastor: Fr. Greg J. Markey Deacon Stephan Genovese Parochial Vicar: Fr. Richard G. Cipolla Choirmaster: David J. Hughes who find themselves blessed with In Residence: Fr. Paul N. Check, Director of Courage material resources. Kudlow pointed out that many Confessions: Monday-Friday: 11:30-12noon; Wednesday: 6:30-6:50pm; Saturday 3:00-4:30pm Synod Sunday Masses: 8:00am, 9:30am Extraordinary Form Solemn High Mass, of the poor and homeless who 11:30am Ordinary Form High Mass, 1:15pm in Spanish come to New Covenant House date suffer from mental illness and/or Music for the 9:30am Sunday Solemn High Latin Mass addictions. He related that he, too, May 18: Fourth Sunday after Easter: Missa Christus resurgens (Willaert); Jubilate Deo (Scarabelli); Christus resurgens (Richafort); is a recovering alcoholic and drug organ music of Bach and Messiaen change Sunday, May 18, 4:00 p.m.: Le Banquet Céleste: Music of Messiaen for Easter & eternity addict, stating that “I got a sec- Recital by David J. Hughes, organ; more information at stmarynorwalk.net/recitals Attention: All Synod ond chance. I will be 19 years in May 25: Fifth Sunday after Easter: Missa super Credidi propter (Lassus); Benedicite gentes (Lassus); Regina caeli (Byrd); organ music Delegates, Commission recovery this July,” which elicited of Howells and Langlais and Committee Members: applause from those gathered. “At Thursday, May 29, 5:30 p.m.: Ascension Day: Plainsong Mass for a Mean (Sheppard); O Rex gloriæ (Byrd); Ascendens New Covenant House,” he added, Christus (Palestrina); Ascendit Deus (Philips); organ music of Messiaen; with the Student Schola Due an unforeseen June 1: Sunday in Ascensiontide: Missa O Rex gloriæ (Palestrina); Hosanna filio David (Gibbons); Jesu nostra redemptio scheduling conflict “we are helping to give people (Byrd); organ music of Bruhns the 4th General Session a second chance. When we feed June 8: Pentecost: Mass for Four Voices (Tallis); Dum complerentur (Guerrero); Advenit ignis divinus (de Monte); of Synod, originally the hungry and care for the least Loquebantur variis linguis (Tallis); organ music of Bach; with the Student Schola among us, we are feeding and car- June 15: Trinity Sunday: Mass for Three Voices (Byrd); Duo seraphim clamabant (Victoria); Honor, virtus, et postestas scheduled for May 2, 2015, (Tallis); organ music of Bach has been changed ing for Jesus our Lord.” to May 9, 2015. The time of On a hopeful note, Kudlow 9:30 am-2:30 pm, and the pointed out that overall charitable Saint Mary’s Bookstore 203.854.9013 location at St. Catherine of giving in the United States is Offering a wide selection of books, crucifixes, rosaries, sacramentals from Italy Siena Family Center, 200 once again on the increase. After and the Holy Land, First Communion and Confirmation gifts, and more. Shelton Road, Trumbull, declining in response to the eco- HOURS: Saturday 10am-4pm | Sunday 9-9:30am, 11am-2pm | Monday, Wednesday and Friday 12:45-2pm remain the same. nomic crisis and following reces- Tuesday 11-11:30am and 12:45-2pm | Thursday 12:45-2pm and 3:30-5:30pm sion in 2008, charitable giving Located in Parish Center building behind Saint Mary Church | VISA/MC ACCEPTED 12 May 2014 Christianity in Action Turning Wine into Water

By NICHOLAS TROILO presented us with a proposal to Access to sufficient quantities fund a project in Ethiopia at the of safe water for drinking, cook- In early spring of 2013, I cost of $150,000. TWIW agreed ing and personal hygiene, as well was the guest of Catholic Relief to sponsor the project and has, to as productive uses, is necessary to Services (CRS) at a luncheon date, raised $130,000 for it. We improve livelihoods. The major hosted by Cardinal Timothy are actively working to raise the planned activities include expand- Dolan at New York’s University remaining $20,000 by the end of ing the existing water supply Club. At that time, he was chair August 2014. systems to new communities and of the CRS Board of Directors. The goal of the project is the development of new water At the luncheon, Cardinal to provide safe water, hygiene sources through spring develop- Dolan introduced the newly- education, and adequate sanita- ment, hand-dug wells and shal- appointed president of CRS, Dr. tion to communities, students, low boreholes. Carolyn Woo. In the days that teachers and health post clients There is so much work that followed, I met with represen- in the Dugda, Bora, Jeldu, Kalu needs to be done in bringing tatives of CRS to discuss their and Kelala woredas (districts) in water to the poorest regions of activity in the area of developing Ethiopia. The project will provide PROVIDING CLEAN WATER—Nicholas Troilo checked out this site in the world. water resources. Making potable safe water to about 13,500 indi- Ethiopia where his foundation, Turning Wine into Water Foundation, has (Nicholas Troilo, a member of the water available to the poor has viduals and basic sanitation to helped to bring clean drinking water to Ethiopian villages. “I was shocked at the Basilica of St. John the Evangelist been the major focus of our not- 1,400 school children and 5,000 level of poverty I witnessed,” he says, but he was encouraged by the deep faith Parish in Stamford, is founder and for-profit arm of Nicholas Roberts health post clients. Capacity and spirit of cooperation he found among people of all faiths. president of “Turning Wine into Fine Wine merchants. The wine/ building and education are key Water.” He is director of the Nicholas water connection was the inspira- elements of the project. Roberts Group, including Nicholas tion for our non-profit’s name: This January, I traveled to (traced to tribal history), villages crude carts to carry grain. Few Roberts Fine Wine Merchants, Ltd., “Turning Wine Into Water” Ethiopia to visit some of the areas of different religious orientation people have more than one set of in Darien.) n (TWIW). where the work we sponsored within a district cooperate in clothes. If children go to school, TWIW was started some was in progress. Ethiopia is a many ways. Poverty is a common they have a uniform, a place to nine years ago and essentially country of approximately 100 factor that unites. wash and a meal. The diet con- Synod uses profits from sales and spe- million people. About 50 percent I think it is important to note sists of a variety of grains. Goats from page 2 cial wine events conducted by of the population is Muslim; fifty that despite the small Roman provide milk. The slaughter of an General Sessions. Nicholas Roberts Fine Wines to percent is Christian. The major- Catholic population, Catholic animal is reserved for an impor- Your participation is impor- raise money for water projects in ity of the Christian population is Relief Services is the major tant celebration. tant! If you have not decided the neediest areas of the world. Orthodox Christian; about one humanitarian force in Ethiopia. Family is central to this way yet, please make plans to attend Since its founding, TWIW percent of the Christian popula- CRS manages many of the relief of life. However, the absence of one of the listening sessions. has contributed nearly a quarter tion is Roman Catholic; a smaller programs funded by the U.S. gov- safe water in the area has a nega- Please use the online forms of a million dollars to benefit percentage is Protestant. ernment in Ethiopia, including tive effect on the children, mainly (www.2014synod.org) to express the poor. Our primary partner Ethiopia is, however, a all of the United States Agency girls. The rate of drop-outs of your idea more freely. Remember for implementing water projects country where there is very for International Development adolescent girls from schools is that the deadline for Form G and has been World Vision—a large, little religious strife. Different (USAID) food distribution to very high, in part related to inad- LS is June 15, 2014! Christian-based international religious groups work together the 17 geographically diverse equate sanitation facilities at the I look forward to seeing you relief organization. and although villages tend to be facilities of the Missionaries of schools. at the next listening session! n By the fall of that year, CRS of one or another religious sect Charity. My trip was focused on seeing both work in progress and work Listening Session from page 3 that had been completed with the funds that TWIW provided. I who have left the faith. was the guest of Bishop Abraham A man who described himself as having been a lifeless Desta while visiting work being Catholic in terms of his faith said there was a need to “give done in the Vicariate of Meki more personal witness” and that the Church could learn some- in the East Shewa district of thing from the “12-steps program” in which people share their Ethiopia. This area in the south own stories. “There’s no place to go when you’re on fire in the western portion of the country is Catholic Church. We need to know what it means to be alive in arid land. The people are subsis- Christ,” he said. tence farmers with small plots of One man noted that his seven-year-old daughter looked up land, about half an acre, leased at the altar of her church surrounded by men and altar boys and from the central government. asked, “Where are the girls?” He said that “We need to find a This was my first visit to way for women to have more obvious role in parishes.” an underdeveloped country. Msgr. Zielonka said that the input from all listening ses- Although I was well briefed sions and the online forms will be processed by the Synod about the conditions, I was still Commission to place all comments into proper categories, i.e., shocked at the level of poverty “liturgy,” “youth” or “administration.” Then study committees I witnessed. All the people are will examine these comments and present them to the General poor beyond the imagination Delegates who will discuss them at the synod’s General Sessions of our American way of life. (Those who cannot attend a listening session but would like to make Roads are dirt and rock paths. a comment are invited to go www.2014synod.org/formg. For more infor- Homes are one-room mud huts mation on upcoming listening sessions throughout the diocese, visit the with thatched roofs. Travel is on Synod 2014 website at www.synod2014.org.) n foot. Some have donkeys and 13 May 2014 National Rally March for Marriage WASHINGTON—The different groups and individuals National Organization for come together for this common Marriage, along with other part- cause which is of great concern to ner organizations, is organizing our society. The outcome of these the second March for Marriage cases was disappointing, and so in Washington on June 19 to we continue to speak up for tradi- support upholding the defini- tional marriage.” tion of marriage as the union Catholics know that mar- of one man and one woman. riage is a sacrament through Last year’s march coincided which God blesses the union of with the day the Supreme Court a husband and a wife with his began hearing arguments on two grace. It brings man and woman cases related to the Defense of together to bless and sanctify one Marriage Act and California’s another, serve each other mutu- Proposition 8. ally in love, and become ever Angela Mantero, diocesan more united in love with open- WITNESSING TO GOD’S PLAN for marriage, Angela Mantero, diocesan director for Marriage and Family, attended director for Marriage and Family, ness to new life. the first March for Marriage in Washington. The diocese is planning a bus trip for this year’s march, which will take was there. “The witness of God’s We know also that marriage place June 19. plan for marriage was strong at is the natural way to be in a the rally on the National Mall relationship based in the natural April 2, Pope Francis addressed bled pilgrims. “This is the image (The Diocese of Bridgeport is as thousands turned up to voice law, which fosters commitment, the importance of marriage. of God: love. God’s alliance organizing a one-day bus trip to the their protest of the redefinition of trust, fidelity, and cooperation “The image of God is a married with us is represented in the alli- March for Marriage. For more infor- marriage,” she said. “Every age, between the sexes for the good of couple, man and woman, not ance between man and woman. mation and to make a reservation, race and religion was represented, all humanity. only man, not only woman, but Married life is beautiful, and must contact Angela Mantero: amantero@ and it was powerful to see such In his Wednesday audience on rather both,” he told the assem- be protected.” diobpt.org or 203.416.1627.) n

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EDITORIAL EDITOR’S CHOICE Off to a good start The ‘Medium & the Message’ “I walked away from this first listening session very hopeful. The challenges are many and even overwhelming, but over the next 18 By FRANK DEROSA would have a more expansive cast, to-find portals into what the months we will learn, grow and discern together. We are poised for from the Internet to digital media Church teaches and what people true spiritual renewal,” said Bishop Frank J Caggiano following the Twitter meant the chirping to social networks—emails and in the Church world are saying first listening session for Synod 2014 held recently at Trinity High of birds, Google was the last blogs, ebooks and video games, and doing. Many dioceses, like School in Stamford. name of Barney, a comic strip Facebook and Twitter, and on into Bridgeport, and a growing num- In trying to explain the synod, some have referred to it as a kind of character, and the term Internet cyberspace. But it would continue ber of parishes have developed “mini-Vatican II,” and that may be a helpful way to look at the pro- was virtually unknown at the to recognize the potential of new attractive websites that let you in cess. The bishop has opened the doors of the diocese to new thought time of the Church’s first World and interactive media to connect on life in their faith communities. and direction. He knows this is a crucial time in Bridgeport and in the Communications Day in 1967. people for the common good. Two Catholic bloggers, among entire Church. There is so much at stake: Oh, how media and vocabulary In his WCD statement this others, provide a real service. It’s time to welcome back Catholics who have left the Church; to inspire Early-30-something Rocco our youth to lifelong worship; to catechize young and old alike who seek have changed. year, Pope Francis stated that the to grow in the faith; and to proclaim the “Good News” of the Gospel in a Pope Paul VI launched WCD Internet is “a gift of God” when Palmo, a faith-filled and wired-in world deeply in need of witness to the dignity and beauty of life. in May of that year, an initia- users understand its “immense Vaticanologist from Philadelphia, During this month and next, Catholics will have the opportunity to tive minimally recognized and possibilities for encounter and produces the respected and some- make their voices heard in other listening sessions throughout the dio- even less observed in the almost solidarity.” He said good com- times intriguing “Whispers in the cese. Last week in Stamford, the first listening sessions was intense and half-century since then. Yes, it is munication “helps us grow closer, Loggia.” He provides thoughtful thoughtful. It’s clear that people have many—even differing—ideas noted in some places, but if you to know one another better and commentary and timely texts. about the future of the Church and changes that need to be made. But Google it, reports of commemo- ultimately to grow in unity.” Brooklyn Deacon Greg Kandra one thing is certain: those who came out shared a deep love and rever- rative events are few. The Pope’s worthy and hope- searches the global media world ence for the Church. That’s the best place to start. World Communications Day ful message is too often honored for informative, inspiring and grew out of Vatican II’s 1963 in the breach. When we travel entertaining religious content for Decree on the Media of Social daily along the digital highway, his “The Deacon’s Bench.” A Latinos and faith Communications, Inter Mirifica, we sometimes see the Internet bonus is reading the weekly homi- Last week Boston College released a much-anticipated report on one of the first of 16 documents and social media galloping into lies he prepares for his parish. the Catholic Church’s ministry to Hispanics in the United States. The that came out of the historic con- the wild, wild West, with too Reading Catholic blogs is not report dramatically underlined the fact that ministry to Hispanics is clave. Media appear to have had few sheriffs on patrol providing yet high on the list for weekly crucial for the present and future of the Church. the Council Fathers’ attention checks and balances on how peo- Mass-goers, however. Only The study found a significant gap between the percentage of almost right away. ple ought to express themselves. 13 percent do so, according to Catholics in the U.S. who are Hispanic (35%) and the number of The decree called for a day For young people, the new Georgetown University’s Center Hispanic seminarians (16%) and Hispanic priests (6%). At the same each year for the Church to focus media platforms can create for Applied Research in the time, the Church has seen a huge increase in the number of Hispanic on the responsible use of com- healthy connections. They are Apostolate. That number ought to deacons who work in parishes. Currently about 15 percent of active per- munications. Pope Paul chose drawn to them with great curios- grow. Data on the ages of people manent deacons are Hispanic. And 43 percent of the more than 22,500 the Sunday before Pentecost to ity. Bishop Frank Caggiano spoke who read them would likely find lay people in church leadership formation programs are Hispanic. celebrate it, June 1 this year. clearly when he said they “are that those who do include many Likewise, there has been an increase in the number of Hispanic bishops in our country. Currently, 28 active bishops are Hispanic. In the conciliar days of the formed” by it and the Church who remember Philco radios, rota- There are many challenges and opportunities ahead across the U.S. 1960s, media generally meant needs to “baptize” the venues. ry phones and Dumont televisions. and in our own diocese. Under the leadership of Father Gustavo Falla, the traditional forms: press, film, Parental guidance and oversight With its 48th incarnation this director of the Ministry for Spanish-Speaking People, we look forward television and radio. The decree are critical to guiding them to year, World Communications to initiatives to celebrate, expand and recognize the contributions of urged that they function “for use communications vehicles like Day reminds us that in an age of Latinos in the life of the local Church—particularly as the synod pre- the good of society, whose fate text messages wisely and to avoid hashtags, “likes” and tweets, all pares our diocese for the future. Spanish-speaking Catholics have been depends more and more on their being exploited. media—the traditional and the invited to a special listening session in Spanish on Sunday June 8, at proper use.” Pope Paul described Websites and blogs, now part new—can enhance relationships and 5 pm at the Catholic Center. Este es el momento. Queremos escucharle! them as “noble” services to be of our media landscape, were promote the common good when used responsibly and with respect unknown terms and entities in we use them in a responsible way. for the dignity of others. 1967. Today, Catholic contribu- Comment welcomed. No pass- Give and receive If written today, Inter Mirifica tions into these fields are easy- word needed. n Joy. Beauty. Blessing. Wondrous things. Those are the words that our new priests and the members of religious congregations profiled in these pages use to describe their vocation. From the outside their choice seems, at best, one of sacrifice, self-denial and hard work. Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano Circulation There’s probably some truth in that image. But the voices of people Publisher Every registered Catholic household whom God has chosen resonate with energy and zest. This is as true Brian D. Wallace in Fairfield County is entitled for a man looking back on 25 years of service as it is for a 25-year-old Office of Executive Editor [email protected] to a subscription. looking forward to ordination day. Pat Hennessy To add or change an address, Those who follow a religious vocation are a blessing and joy to all Communications Managing Editor [email protected] call 203.416.1461, of us as well. The three new priests ordained in May will preside at Diocese of Bridgeport Renée Stamatis or email: [email protected] marriages, baptize babies and offer the Eucharist to earnest youngsters 238 Jewett Avenue Art Director [email protected] Bridgeport, Connecticut 06606-2892 at First Holy Communion and adults seeking the strength of the sacra- Ralph Lazzaro Annual Subscription Price telephone | 203.416.1461 ment. They and the women and men religious who assist them work Advertising Manager [email protected] $20 (within diocese) fax | 203.374.2044 tirelessly to build up the life of faith in Fairfield County. $50 (outside diocese) email | [email protected] Fr. Colin McKenna God nourishes their lives, and we can do our part, too. Welcome Staff Writer [email protected] the new priests. Celebrate the jubilarians who have nurtured your par- web | www.bridgeportdiocese.com Postmaster www.facebook.com/FairfieldCountyCatholics Brian A. Wallace ish through the years. Thank the elderly who have dedicated their lives www.facebook.com/BridgeportDiocese Graphic Designer [email protected] send address changes to: to God’s work. Be grateful for the religious who enrich our lives—and Fairfield County Catholic www.twitter.com/@DOBevents Jill Monroe tell them so. God called them to strengthen our faith; our response can @DOByouth 238 Jewett Avenue Office Manager/Admin [email protected] strengthen theirs in return. In faith we are bound together, giving and USPS no.: 12-117. Periodical Bridgeport, Connecticut 06606-2892 receiving. While following God’s call in our own lives, we can reach postage paid at Bridgeport, CT 06601, Madeline Ghilardi Copy Editor (Consultant) © Copyright 2014, Diocese of Bridgeport out to be a joy and blessing to those who give their lives for us. n and additional mailing offices. 15 May 2014 Editorial The ‘Medium & the Message’ You do what? mention May Crowning. If you to talk about the Rosary again and Our faith is organic. It all fits mention May Crowning, you how those prayers come right out together. It cannot be reduced Catholic by Grace have to explain how Mary is the of the Bible because Jesus prayed to one sound bite. It lives and Queen of Heaven & Earth. If you the Our Father, and the Hail Mary breathes and has a complexity and By Denise Bossert mention that Mary is the Queen is a combination of the words beauty that is as mysterious and of Heaven & Earth, you have of Archangel Gabriel and St. glorious as the Body of Christ. to talk about the Assumption, Elizabeth. And the month of May is con- the Immaculate Conception, the And if you manage to explain nected to that living, breathing Denise Bossert is a national Ark of the Covenant, the New why Catholics pray memorized intricacy. Eve and why that’s all scrip- prayers, you will have to explain Let’s face it. The best way to Catholic writer and columnist. tural. You’ll have to crack open that we pray in many different experience Mary’s month is to the Bible and look at the Book ways and it all comes together become a little child. Don’t try to of Revelation and the “women in the Mass and the Mass fits figure it all out at once like some- t is May. That means Crowning. It’s time to pray the clothed with the sun” and explain into the Liturgical Calendar and one cramming for a final exam. Catholic schools and par- Rosary and present the Blessed how Mary was prefigured by the Liturgical Calendar takes Just go cut some flowers and ishes are having their May Mother with flowers and a Hannah, Ruth, Queen Esther, us from Advent to Christmas to lay them at her feet. Pick up your I Crownings. crown, she said. and Judith. Ordinary Time, to Lent to Easter Rosary and pray the Glorious About two years after my Try explaining that to your And if you make it to Judith, to Pentecost, and then to... Mysteries. Or simply plan to conversion, the whole Mary- Protestant family and friends. you are going to have to explain May. learn the Hail Mary if you have and-the-month-of-May thing hit You do what? why Judith is not in their To the Blessed Mother. never tried to do that. my radar. “So what’s with Mary We pray the Rosary... [You’ve Protestant Bibles—but they don’t And... if you mention the For you see, it all comes down and the month of May?” I asked already lost them, and you know what they are missing month of May and the Blessed to this: Sometimes, the best way my cradle Catholic friend. She haven’t even gotten to the part because Judith is the most amaz- Mother, you’d better put on to find Christ is to let yourself explained that the Church has set about the crown.] ing widow in Salvation History. another pot of coffee because find Mary. Embrace the simple aside the month of May to honor If you mention May and the And if you find yourself back you are about to cover the same elegance of it and the organic the Blessed Mother—hence, May Blessed Mother, you have to to the Bible, you are going to have ground all over again. complexity will fall into place. n Mothers, We See You from you. We see we are second fiddle, healer, a sustainer, a partner, a We see you giving us faith. and we don’t care. We get it. leader, a friend. We adore and A Dad’s View Amen. We see you helping us put glorify you. We sing your praises We see you worrying. Yeah, our best feet forward. We know and shower you with hosannas. By Matthew Hennessey we see that. You pace. You can’t on some level that grown men You deserve every bit of it. sleep. You check, double check, tri- shouldn’t wear sweat pants in We see what you can’t see ple check. You bite your nails. It’s public, but we are lazy. You are about yourself. You are kind. Matthew Hennessey and okay. We know why you worry. the last line of You are We see you getting tired. defense. What thought- his family are parishioners You’re not Wonder Woman, would we do “You are forgiving. ful. You of St. Aloysius in New Canaan. after all. You have an exhausting without you? love job. It would be weird if it didn’t We see you You pluck splinters. uncon- tire you out. We see you as a getting old. Is it dition- e see you in the to memory. You are impressive. human being. okay to say so? You know about eagles. ally. You morning, getting We are impressed. We see you comparing yourself We don’t mean despise breakfast on the We see you in the evening, to your own mother. You don’t it in a bad way. You dig Harry Potter. injustice. Wtable and making always the last to sit down. need to do that. She made her We are getting You can explain the You are everyone’s lunches. There is so Where does the day go? It goes share of mistakes (even she will old, too. That’s forgiving. much to do, and so little time. where yesterday went, and where say so). You are doing just fine. what we signed You pluck You are great under pressure. We tomorrow will go, too—into We need you to understand that. up for, isn’t it? Luminous Mysteries splinters. see that side of you. the past, into memory, into the We see you making sure we We want to You know We see you in the afternoon, future. We see you making a get to Mass on Sunday. The kids grow old with and the infield fly rule.” about running errands, running your future for our family. are thinking about cartoons. We you. Think of eagles. business, running home from We see you helping the chil- are thinking about football. You how many laughs we are going to You dig Harry Potter. You can work, running all over the place, dren learn to read. You have are thinking about getting us to have together when things slow explain the Luminous Mysteries running to stay sane. Each day such patience. You don’t get frus- heaven. We know we’re lucky to down. We are looking forward and the infield fly rule. You are it’s something different. Each trated like we do. The kids are have you. to that. indispensable. day is stressful. We see you put- learning, but so are we. You are We see you through the chil- We see that we are not the We see it all. We see it every ting everyone else’s needs before a great teacher. dren’s eyes. You say you are too same. You have your ways. We day. We see so much now that your own. We see you helping them quick to anger with them, but have our ways. When one of us we didn’t see—or couldn’t see— We see you juggling twenty say their prayers. These are the they worship you. They crave falls, the other is there to pick up before we knew you. things at once. Where did you words. This is what they mean. and require you. They tell us all the slack. We are complementary. So much remains invisible. learn to do that? We can’t Hold your hands like this. Say a the time how beautiful you are, That is important. That is as it We know we don’t see half of all remember what we had for din- prayer for Grandma. Say a prayer how funny, how thoughtful, how should be. We see the value in it. you do. But on Mother’s Day, of ner last night, but you’ve got for Pop Pop. Talk to God. Ask comforting. You are everything We see you the way God sees all days, we wish you could see everyone’s schedules committed for his help. He wants to hear to them. you—a life-giver, a builder, a what we see. n 16 May 2014 Parish News St. Emery Church gains historic designation FAIRFIELD—The Church of The designation committee rec- Father Balint was named resident St. Emery, part of Holy Family ognized the church’s interior, with priest at St. Ladislaus Parish Parish in Fairfield, has attained its arched cannon-dome architec- in South Norwalk for 40 years, the distinctive honor of being ture, intricate wall gold leaf décor, starting in 1971. While at St. officially registered as an Historic prominent sanctuary frescoes, Ladislaus, he celebrated Mass in Place in the State of Connecticut. nave paintings of religious figures, Hungarian each Sunday. He was St. Emery Parish was founded century-old stained glass windows, then appointed priest in residence in 1932 to serve Hungarian imported European sculptures, at St. Ann Parish in Bridgeport, Catholics in the Fairfield area. marble altars, handcrafted bronze and has been in charge of the The designation was made wall plaques and rare tapestries. St. Emery’s Hungarian Ministry by the Connecticut Historic Most importantly, they rec- since 2010. He has been a coordi- Preservation Council of the ognized the place of St. Emery’s nator of Catholic Boy Scouts CT Department of Economic and in the history of the American- Yankee Council since 1971. Cultural Development, consist- Hungarian Catholic community Although retired, he continues ing of distinguished architects in Connecticut. The historic the Hungarian Ministry at St. and historians appointed by the designation is a tribute and honor HISTORICALLY REMARKABLE, St. Emery Church has received recogni- Emery’s. Governor of Connecticut. to all the parishioners and the tion as An Historic Place by the State of Connecticut. Father Steven Balint, who Father Long was born in Qualifications were based on Franciscan clergy who founded has been in charge of St. Emery’s Hungarian Ministry, thanked parishioners for Brockton, Mass., and attended the church’s Romanesque Revival and faithfully supported this cher- their support at a recent celebration. (Photos by Mike Lauterborn) St. Casimir Lithuanian School architectural form, with a clas- ished parish for over 80 years. and St. Anthony High School in sic bell tower and an exterior Honoring that history, Kennebunkport, Maine. Father enhanced by façade mosaics, although the recognition was priests closely involved with the A luncheon held at St. Emery’s Long went to Rome to attend arcaded corbel table décor, a rose received six months ago, St. Hungarian Catholic community honored Father Balint’s retirement the Lithuanian Seminary and window and belt-course decora- Emery’s waited to combine the in Fairfield County: Father Steven and celebrated Father Long’s 45th the Lateran University in Rome, tive brick motif. celebration with that of two Balint and Father John Long. anniversary in the priesthood. and was ordained on December Of Hungarian background but 21, 1968, by Pope Paul VI at born in Bridgeport, Father Balint the Lateran Basilica in Rome. The Cathedral Parish celebrates the renovation attended the parochial school of He later returned to Rome for a the former St. Stephen Hungarian degree in canon law. of the Alma Schenk Hiendlmayr Memorial Organ Parish from kindergarten through He moved to the Diocese of at the Cathedral Church of St. Augustine, Bridgeport eighth grade. After graduat- Bridgeport in 1966, serving at St. ing from Fairfield Prep and St. Ambrose Parish while chaplain at with a Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield, Bridgeport Hospital and Bridgeport Dedicatory Recital he completed his theological stud- Health Care, and at Holy Cross given by ies at Our Lady of the Angels Slovenian Parish in Fairfield and Seminary in Albany, N.Y. He St. Ann and Holy Rosary parishes Dr. Jeremy Filsell was ordained by Bishop Walter in Bridgeport. He became resident Director of Music, Church of the Epiphany W. Curtis on May 22, 1965. priest at St. Emery’s in 2011, Artist-in-Residence, Washington National Cathedral Following assignments at St. where he is dedicated to sup- Professor of Organ, Catholic University of America Joseph Parish in Danbury and St. porting the religious needs of the Ambrose Parish in Bridgeport, parishioners and parish. n Come and celebrate with us! The Dedicatory Recital is open to the general public and admission is free. Egan on Fisher from page 4 Friday, June 13, 2014—8:00 pm involved in the day-to-day activi- integration of his courses with the ties of Fisher for nearly 20 years. life of the seminary community The Cathedral Church of St. Augustine • 399 Washington Avenue • Bridgeport, Connecticut 06604 Philip, a general contractor has created a wonderful esprit and master carpenter, built the de corps: “I use Latin and music Reviews Adoration Chapel and the Chapel instruction to create a relationship of the Holy Cross at St. John with the seminarians, which gives Choir & Organ Fisher Seminary, both of which me insight into their personalities, ‘Jeremy Filsell’s performance was of a world-class standard... are recognized for their beauty formation and discernment. I use This could so easily have been an opportunity for Filsell merely to stun and craftsmanship. In addition this insight to give another per- the audience with his virtuosity; it is further to his credit that above the huge to the seminary, his work can spective to the rector and to the mental and physical demands a live performance of this work provides, be seen throughout the diocese, seminarians. I also do my part to his understanding of the music, and his success in communicating including St. Augustine Cathedral. create a culture where respect and it with integrity and sensitivity, shone through.’ They have eight children, 25 friendliness are valued.” grandchildren, and two great- David and his wife, Carol, The American Organist grandchildren with another one reside in New Canaan. They have ‘Flawless playing of virtuoso works; performances of which on the way. two sons. the composer would be proud.’ David Harvey started teaching (To make a reservation to attend Latin at St. John Fisher Seminary the 25th Anniversary Reception at Classic CD in 1990; music and Greek were the Inn at Longshore, contact Allison ‘Filsell ... technically extremely accomplished nonetheless does not attract soon added to his responsibilities. McCarthy, assistant to the director of attention for his virtuosity but for his ability to make the music unfold with But his contributions to the life of seminarian formation St. John Fisher irresistible logic and clarity: music-making of the highest calibre.’ the seminary extend far beyond Seminary: 203.322-.5331 or email: that. His philosophy about the [email protected].) n When you make a gift to the 2014 Annual Bishop’s Appeal, you are PLEASE JOIN touching the lives of thousands of people across Fairfield County. Your gift OTHER GENEROUS DONORS supports a variety of programs and ministries in the Diocese of Bridgeport. IN MAKING YOUR GIFT TODAY! CATHOLIC CHARITIES Catholic Charities provides over 30 social service programs to assist individuals and families of all backgrounds and faiths. The agency offers multiple housing, community support, and outreach programs to help the disabled, the medically fragile, the formerly homeless and the working poor to overcome financial and personal hardship and remain independent.

In 2013 Catholic Charities: • Served 1.5 million meals to the vulnerable and needy through four major nutrition programs: Morning Glory Breakfast in Danbury, Thomas Merton Center in Bridgeport, New Covenant House of Hospitality in Stamford, and Senior Nutrition Program in the Stamford region. • Provided 15,000 counseling sessions through the Behavioral Health Program, which offers a full range of outpatient mental health services to individuals and families throughout Fairfield County. • Arranged significant on-going support to the residents of Newtown after the December 14th tragedy. • With the support of Catholic Charities USA and the State of Connecticut, initiated outreach for those still suffering from the effects of Superstorm Sandy.

PARISH LIFE AND MINISTRIES

Pastoral Services serves as the foundation for spreading the faith in the Diocese of Bridgeport.

• 38,000 children receive religious education. • Adult education is available through the St. Cyril of Jerusalem Program and S.H.A.R.E, Sacred Heart Adult Religious Education. • Ministry for People with Disabilities provides sacramental preparation, activities support for families and individuals with special needs. • Ongoing Marriage Preparation and Jubilee Mass celebration. • Respect Life Ministry coordinates the Annual March for Life pilgrimage; Mass for Life; Project Rachel Ministry and the 40 Days of Life Campaign. • Youth Ministry offers countless opportunities through which our youth grow in their faith.

CARE OF RETIRED PRIESTS After a lifetime of service, sacrifice and devotion as the spiritual leaders of our parish communities, our priests must be cared for in retirement. Funds from the Annual Bishop’s Appeal support 56 retired priests, including 18 in residence at the Catherine Dennis Keefe Queen of Clergy Residence in Stamford.

CATHOLIC EDUCATION The Appeal supports the ministry of administrators and teachers in 30 diocesan elementary and five diocesan high schools and St. Catherine’s Academy for children with special needs.

• More than 50% of diocesan elementary schools received the U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Award. This year St. Jude School received the honor. • Diocesan schools have a rigorous standards–based curriculum designed by teachers and administrators across the diocese. Curriculum development infuses Gospel values and exceeds state and national academic standards. • Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (S.T.E.M.) courses are integrated throughout the curriculum. CATHOLIC ACADEMIES The Catholic Academies of Bridgeport are faith-filled learning communities comprised of three elementary schools: St. Andrew Academy, Cathedral Academy and St. Ann Academy.

• Students in the Academies follow the diocesan curriculum and assessments are above grade level in literacy and math. • 65% of families receive tuition assistance. • 100% of students graduate from high school, attend college and engage in rewarding careers.

PRIESTLY FORMATION AND PERMANENT DIACONATE 2014 marks the 25th anniversary of the founding of St. John Fisher Seminary in Stamford, where more than 80 men began their spiritual journey and were ordained priests in the Diocese of Bridgeport.

• 20 seminarians are presently in formation and discerning their vocations. • Four men will be ordained to the priesthood this year. • 12 men are in formation for the Permanent Diaconate program. • 92 active deacons assist pastors at the altar and in hospital and nursing home ministry.

CLERGY MINISTRIES Clergy Ministries provides spiritual and professional development and coordinates special ministries, for Priests, Deacons and Religious men and women including:

• Ongoing study and recollection days. • Advanced education for the newly-ordained priests. • Coordination of Haitian, Hispanic and African-American ministries. • Priests and Sisters assigned to special ministries. • Religious Sisters who provide pastoral care at St. Joseph, St. Camillus and Pope John Paul Nursing Homes.

ALLOCATION OF THE $11.5 MILLION GOAL: WAYS TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE 2014 ANNUAL BISHOP’S APPEAL YOUR GIFT AT WORK PLEDGES - A gift to the Appeal may be paid through December 31, 2014. GIFTS - Checks may be made payable to the Annual Bishop’s Appeal. Formation of Priests and Deacons ...... $1,917,000 Please do not send cash. Catholic Schools ...... $1,760,000 CREDIT CARD - A credit card gift may be payable online or by pledge card. Clergy Ministries ...... $1,548,000 ONLINE GIVING - www.2014ABA.com. Catholic Charities ...... $1,250,000 MATCHING GIFTS - Many organizations will match gifts to Catholic Charities Care of Retired Priests ...... $1,000,000 and Catholic Schools. Please contact 203-416-1312 for more information. Parish Life and Ministries ...... $ 893,000 GIFTS OF SECURITIES - If you own securities that have appreciated in value, Inner-City Elementary Schools ...... $ 667,000 they can be given to the Appeal and their full market value becomes a tax deductible gift. Please contact 203-416-1470 for more information. Fairfield County Catholic ...... $ 500,000 Finance and Accounting Support for Parishes ...... $ 460,000 If you have questions, please email us at: [email protected] or call us at: 203-416-1470. All gifts to the 2014 Annual Bishop’s Appeal will be Hospital Ministries ...... $ 375,000 acknowledged by the Diocese of Bridgeport and are tax deductible to the * In the spirit of financial transparency, the cost to conduct the Annual Bishop’s Appeal fullest extent of the law. Please consult with your tax advisor on the tax totals less than 9 cents on the dollar raised based on the 2014 ABA goal. treatment of all gifts, as they may vary from individual to individual.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GIFT! YOU MAY MAKE YOUR GIFT ONLINE AT: 2014ABA.COM OR CALL 203.416.1470 MATCHING GIFTS PROGRAM – A GREATER IMPACT ON GIVING Parishioners may double or even triple their donation to the Annual Bishop’s Appeal through their employers matching gift program and credit their parish. Some companies may even match gifts by retirees and/or spouses of deceased employees.

Matching Gifts to the Annual Bishop’s Appeal

Please inquire about a matching gift at your company because it may double your donation and be credited toward the parish goal! While some companies may not donate to religious organizations, some have changed policies over time and may support Catholic Charities or the Catholic Academies of Bridgeport. Matching gift forms can be obtained from the Human Resources Department or Benefits Coordinator of your company. Please fill in the employee’s portion and submit the form or appropriate paperwork with your pledge card or when your pledge is completed.

Step 1: Check with the Human Resources Department, Benefits Coordinator or Payroll Department of your company and inquire if they offer a Matching Gift.

Step 2: Review donation guidelines and/or a list of eligible charities supported.

Step 3: Decide how much you want to donate. Important some companies will not donate to religious organizations but may donate to Catholic Charities of Fairfield County or Catholic Schools. If your company qualifies, please make your gift payments payable to Catholic Charities or the Catholic Academies of Bridgeport and remit the payments to the Appeal Office. If you need more information, please contact us at 203.416-1312 or [email protected].

Step 4: Fill out the employee section on the appropriate form and submit with the pledge card or at the completion of your last payment to ensure that the match is donated.

If you have any questions about this process, please call the Development Office at 203.416.1312 or email us at [email protected].

PARTIAL LIST OF COMPANIES THAT MATCH GIFTS

Abbey National Employee Services Inc. D. L. Ryan Companies LTD. JPMorgan Chase Foundation Quest Diagnostics Matching Gift Program ACE Charitable Foundation Dannon Company Matching Gift Program Lexis Nexis Rayonier, Inc. Matching Gifts Program Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation Liberty Mutual RBS Greenwich Capital Advanced Technology Materials, Inc Diageo North America Liz Claiborne Reader’s Digest Foundation Matching (ATMI) Doty Family Foundation Kraft Foods Foundation Gift Program AES Corporiation Dun & Bradstreet Matching Gifts Program Reuters Allianz of America, Inc. Eastern Bank Lone Pine Foundation Inc. Rockefeller Matching Gift Program Alliance Bernstein Eaton Vance Macquarie Bank Robert Wood Johnson Foundation AllState Annual Giving Eli Lilly and Company Foundation Macy’s Foundation Matching Ryan Partnership Campaign Matching Gifts Matching Gifts Program Gift Program Sarah Lee Foundation Alpha Medical Group LLC Endurance Matching Gift Program MasterCard Matching Gift Program SBC Foundation Altria Employee Involvement Programs Energizer Matching Gifts Program Maverick Senior Care Managerment LLC American Express Gift Matching Program ExxonMobil Foundation MBIA Foundation, Inc. Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation American International Group, Inc. (AIG) FactSet Research Systems McGraw Hill Soros Fund Management Amica Companies Foundation Fidelity Investments MeadWestvaco Foundation Matching Gift Program Andor Capital FM Global Foundation Matching Gifts to Education State Street Applera Corporation Follett Matching Gift Program Merck Sterling-Rice Group Arch Chemicals, Inc. Franklin Templeton Matching Gift Program Meredith Corporation Foundation Sun Microsystems Arthur J. Gallagher Foundation Fremont Group Merrill Lynch Matching Gifts Program Survey Sampling International Assured Guaranty Matching Gifts Program Future US Microsoft Giving Campaign Syncora Guarantee Services Inc. Aventis Pharmaceuticals Gannett Foundation Microsoft Matching Gifts Program Tauck World of Giving Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (ADP) Gartner, Inc. Moody’s Foundation Matching Gift Program TDK U.S.A. Corporation Avon Foundation Matching Gifts Program General Electric Foundation (GE) Mutual of America Terex Matching Gift Program AXA Foundation General Reinsurance Matching Nationwide Foundation Texaco, Inc. Bank of America Matching Gifts Gift Program (Gen Re) New Alliance Foundation, Inc. Thomson Reuters Foundation Bank of New York Mellon Georgia-Pacific Corporation Newgate Capital Management LLC Time Warner, Inc. Barclays Global Investor Gillette Matching Gifts Program Nordson Corporation Times Square Capital Management Barnes Group Foundation, Inc. Givaudan Northrop Grumman Litton Foundation Tiffany & Co. Matching Gift Program Bayer Health Care Glaxo Smith Kline Foundation NYSE Euronext Foundation Matching Towers Watson (Perrin) Becton Dickinson GLOBAL Reinsurance Gift Program Transatlantic Reinsurance Company Benenson Capital Partners, LLC Corporation of America Oce North America Tyco Employee Matching Gift Program Benjamin Moore & Company GMAC Insurance Personal Lines Matching Gifts Program UBS Employee Giving Programs Black Rock Google Odyssey America Reinsurance Corporation Unilever Matching Gifts Program Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation Matching Gift Goldman Sachs Matching Gift Program Olin Corporation Charitable Trust United Illuminating Program Goodrich Foundation OppenheimerFunds, Inc. United Technologies (UTC) Matching Building Materials Holding Greenfield Partners PartnerRe U.S. Matching Gifts Program Gift Program Corporation (BMHC) Guideposts Matching GIfts Program PBG WINs Matching Gifts UPS Caxton Foundation Hartford Financial Services Group Pension Service, Inc. USTraditions Matching Gift Program (UST) Charles Schwab Corporate Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection Pepsico Foundation Matching Gifts Program Verizon Foundation Foundation Harvey Hubell, Inc. Pequot Capital Foundation, Inc. Vivendi Universal Chevron Humankind Hewitt Associates LLC Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program VMware Foundation Cigna Matching Gifts Program Hitachi Capital America Corp. Pharmacia Retiree Matching Gifts Wachovia Foundation Citi Foundation Home Depot Foundation Philips Matching Gift Program Matching Gifts Program Citizens Financial Group Honeywell International Charity Matching Phoenix Companies Warnaco Foundation Matching Gift Program Colgate-Palmolive Company HP Pitney Bowes Corporate Washington Mutual Compass Group Management, LLC Intie Matching Gift Program Matching Gift Program Conrad N. Hilton Foundation ITT Industries, Inc. Plainfield Asset Management LLC Weeden & Company Covidien Employee Matching Gift Program ITW Foundation PPG Industries Foundation Wells Fargo Educational Crompton Corporation Investment Technology Group, Inc. Pratt and Whitney Matching Gift Program CRT Capital Group LLC James H. Napier Foundation Praxair Matching Gifts Program XL America Matching Gift Program CTC Matching Gift Program Jeffries & Company Prudential Foundation Matching Cytec Industries John Hancock Gifts Program If your employer is not listed, please contact your Human Resources or Benefits Department to find out if your company has a matching Gifts Program. Call us at 203.416.1312 for more information. 21 May 2014 Founding a Seminary First Rector recalls...

By MSGR. STEPHEN age more men from Fairfield for the kitchen and dining room, DiGIOVANNI County to become priests. and reworking of a rudimentary Bishop Egan asked me to chapel, and we had a seminary. On the snowy Wednesday of drive around the diocese, look at Despite the poor quality of Dec. 14, 1988, Bishop Edward church properties, old convents or the building, the five years on M. Egan was installed as the rectories, and make recommen- Daniels Farm Road were great third Bishop of Bridgeport. I trav- dations for the new seminary. ones. eled home from Boston to attend Finally, it was decided to use the The rule for the seminary resi- the installation ceremonies. former convent on Daniels Farm dence was taken from two similar FIRST SEMINARY RESIDENCE on Daniels Farm Road, Trumbull. Earlier that year, Bishop Road in Trumbull that had served institutions opened at that time: Curtis had given as the residence the St. John Neumann Residence me permission for religious sis- in the Archdiocese of New York, sion. I thought our patron should of Dubuque, came up with the to work for five ters staffing St. and the Maison Notre Dame in be a diocesan priest who loved perfect patron: St. John Fisher, years in Boston Joseph’s High the Archdiocese of Paris. A tick- the Church and the priesthood. the 16th century Bishop of at the recently School. lish question was the patronage A seminary classmate, Msgr. Rochester, England, who pre- established It was a and name of Bridgeport’s ver- Edward Petty of the Archdiocese ➤ continued on page 29 Cambridge homely rectan- Center for the gular building of Study of Faith concrete block, and Culture. The with sixteen tiny new Bishop of bedrooms on the Bridgeport had second floor, a other ideas, and block of toilets phoned me soon and showers after his installa- mid-way down tion, asking if I the hallway. would be willing There was a to return home. small, non- What do descript room you say to your MSGR. STEPHEN DiGIOVANNI that served as bishop, to whom when Fisher first opened its doors. a chapel, a few you promised odd, decrepit obedience, other than “yes!” rooms of unknown purpose, and After putting down the phone, a huge basement. The building I mentally kicked myself for not was a cold one. asking him why he wanted me It was built on a small rise to come home. A few days later, of land above Gate of Heaven he told me: to begin a seminary Cemetery. Strong winds buffeted house of studies. the building during the bleak win- At that time, Bridgeport was ter months, and the single pane still a relatively young diocese, aluminum frame windows and only 35 years old. Young men un-insulated cinder block walls from Fairfield County who were did little to keep out the cold. interested in the priesthood, as I The roof leaked and the heating was in 1969, were usually enrolled system was older than I was. The in a local formation program, perfect, cheery place to begin a living in the former Holy Ghost seminary! seminary known as Ferndale in My first job was to contact Norwalk while studying at Sacred Richie Plavnicky, the diocesan Heart University. Others, like me, head of buildings and grounds, to were sent to St. Thomas Seminary discuss refurbishing the building, in Bloomfield, Conn., for the first and Bernie Reidy, the CFO of the two years of college studies. To diocese, to discuss funding. By complete college, I was then sent February, plans had been drawn to St. Mary’s Seminary College in up; work began in June. The Catonsville, Md. structure remained unchanged: Following college semi- cinderblock and flat roof. Two nary studies, seminarians were tiny apartments were created assigned to a four-year major near the front door: the rector’s seminary in the United States living quarters, each of the two or in Rome to complete their rooms measured about 10’ x 10’; theological graduate studies and and two rooms for the spiritual prepare spiritually for ordination director, Msgr. James Cuneo, to the priesthood. Bishop Egan even smaller than mine! A new believed—rightly— that having roof, paint, the construction of the seminary house of studies a few bookcases for the library, within the diocese would encour- the purchase of some crockery 22 May 2014 Bishop’s Appeal Nurtures Vocations After 25 years, Saint John Fisher is home

By FATHER COLIN McKENNA Founded by Bishop (now The move to the “new” Fisher Cardinal) Egan in 1989, St. John Seminary in Stamford was made On July 6, 1994, I traveled Fisher Seminary proved so successful possible by grants from the up the Merritt Parkway toward in attracting men to the priesthood Annual Bishop’s Appeal, and Trumbull, holding tightly onto that it relocated from Trumbull its ongoing success is dependent the steering wheel. With each to a larger residence in Stamford. upon the continued generosity of approaching exit, I kept telling An interesting twist is that I was a those who donate to the ABA. myself that this was all just a member of the last group to use After 20 years in Stamford, the bad idea and that I should turn the Trumbull residence. Fisher building has become a around and go home. In September of that year we bit weathered on the outside Perhaps guided by the Holy moved into the current Fisher and in need of Spirit, my car made its way to House on Newfield Avenue in upgrades to its the St. John Fisher Seminary Stamford. It, too, was a former physical structure. Residence. I pulled into the park- convent, and during my academic Spiritually, howev- ing lot and turned off the engine. year there, I witnessed its trans- er, it is as strong as Seminarian (now Father) Peter formation into a bustling, func- ever and continues Lynch helped me with my bags tioning house of formation and its vital mission of and led me into Fisher, a former center for higher learning. When forming men for ST. JOHN FISHER RESIDENCE—In one of the early convent that had been converted the priesthood here photos of the new seminary, Msgr. Stephen DiGiovanni, the main chapel was renovated, (center) first rector of St. John Fisher Residence on Daniels into the Diocese of Bridgeport’s a 24-hour adoration chapel was in the Diocese of Farm Road in Trumbull, when it first opened its doors. first pre-seminary residence, as it also built. It remains accessible to Bridgeport. Seminarians pitched in with painting, cleaning and yard was called at first. visitors around the clock. This June, St. work in addition to their studies as they discerned their John Fisher vocations. Father Colin McKenna (l) in 1994. celebrates its 25th 24 Hour Service Available anniversary. Family Owned and Operated Recently, I vocation. Fisher House makes it as easy as Since 1920 had the opportu- One such possible to focus on one’s prayer nity to visit Fisher House again seminarian is Chris Ford, life and studies without worrying Floral Designing Weddings & Parties for dinner with Father Robert 24, who is originally from about a lot of externals.” Proms and Graduations Kinnally, Father Sam Kachuba Naugatuck. He had already During dinner, “Father Sam” www.hansensflowershop.com and the resident seminarians. earned a master’s degree in edu- and “Father Bob,” as the seminar- 1040 Post Road Fairfield Father Kinnally is the rector of cation when he entered Fisher ians call them, carried on a pleas- Fisher and director of seminarian last fall, but his program of ant back and forth conversation formation for the diocese. Father priestly formation requires that with those in formation. As in any 203-255-0461 Kachuba is Bridgeport’s vocation he spend two years of academic organized group, together pursu- director, as well as spiritual direc- and spiritual formation at Fisher ing a clearly stated mission, there’s tor at Stamford’s Trinity Catholic and then another four years at a some good-natured ribbing and High School. As evidenced by major seminary. Thankfully, the give and take. “As rector, I am their dual titles, they are both cost of his housing and tuition trying to show the guys that priest- extremely busy men! is covered by scholarship grants hood should be a joyful experi- Despite the time constraints from the ABA. ence,” Father Kinnally said. they experience daily, both “Although I grew up in the Presently, there are eight semi- Father Kinnally and Father Hartford Archdiocese,” Ford narians living at Fisher House, Kachuba are committed to being said, “I chose to study at Fisher taking college courses accredited present to all of the men under House for Bridgeport because by Sacred Heart University and/ their guidance in formation for the formation program here is so or Fordham University. The the priesthood and any who may clearly defined. As difficult as it house can hold as many as 18; Rated #1 in New England express an interest in discerning a can be to aspire to the priesthood, ➤ continued on page 27 in Total Customer Satisfaction Year after Year SECURE INFORMATION DESTRUCTION BY BONDED PROFESSIONALS

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By FATHER SAM KACHUBA vocations (see Familiaris Consortio, Father, Mulieris Dignitatem, Pastores Dabo Who is responsible for voca- Vobis, and Vita Consecrata, to In your plan for our salvation tions to the priesthood? Over name a few). In family life, John You provide shepherds for your the past few years that I have Paul saw the Domestic Church, people. served as a member of the voca- the first place where children tion team, and now as director learned the beauty and joy of the Fill your Church with the spirit of vocations for the Diocese of Catholic faith, and the building of courage and charity. Bridgeport, this question fre- block of a more Christian society. Raise up worthy priests for your quently crosses my mind. The Pope St. John XXIII, per- altars, temptation is to believe that I haps best known for convening alone bear the responsibility for the Second Vatican Council, is And ardent, but gentle servants finding, cultivating and fostering the Pope of docility to the Holy of the Gospel. vocations (and not only vocations Spirit. His vision for Vatican II FATHER SAM KACHUBA speaks at a youth meeting held this past winter. to the priesthood, but any and was to invite the power of the We ask this, through Christ (Photo by Amy Mortensen) all vocations!). If I am honest, Holy Spirit, in a new way, to our Lord. Amen. n though, I recognize right away come upon the Church and so that it is a task of too great a bring about renewal. He hoped magnitude for me to bear alone. that the Church would be enabled And so who is responsible? I to stand in the modern world am. And so are you. Every one of as a beacon of the Gospel and us shares in the duty of cultivat- a vibrant sign of the presence ing vocations, especially to the of Jesus Christ. It is within the priesthood and religious life. The Church that each individual Code of Canon Law (233 § 1) Christian is formed in openness states, “It is the duty of the whole to the Holy Spirit. And the life Christian community to foster of the Catholic Church universal vocations so that the needs of the is mirrored and lived out on a sacred ministry are sufficiently smaller scale in every Christian met in the entire Church. In par- home, the domestic church. ticular, this duty binds Christian How can we form our families families, educators, and in a spe- to be docile to the Holy Spirit and cial way, priests, especially parish thus promote, foster, and culti- priests. Diocesan bishops, who vate the gift of vocations? First, must show the greatest concern to pray. I encourage you to pray promote vocations, are to instruct daily for an outpouring of grace the people entrusted to them on our diocese, that the Holy on the importance of the sacred Spirit will raise up many more ministry and the need for minis- good, holy priests and religious to ters in the Church. They are to serve. Second, raise your voice. encourage and support initiatives If you see someone—a young to promote vocations, especially man who serves at the Mass you movements established for this attend, or a young woman who is purpose.” active in your parish—ask them if In his homily at the canoniza- they have ever considered a voca- tions of Pope St. John XXIII tion to the priesthood or religious and Pope St. John Paul II, Pope life. Let God speak through you Francis used two key phrases to plant the seed of vocation in to describe each of these great their hearts. Third, respond. Have pontiffs. Of the saintly John Paul you ever wondered if God is call- II, the Holy Father stated that ing you to dedicate your life to he was the “Pope of the family.” him in a profound way through And of Good Pope John, his suc- the sacrament of , or cessor called him the “Pope of through the evangelical counsels docility to the Holy Spirit.” of poverty, chastity, and obedi- Vocations to the priesthood ence? Say yes. and religious life are born in our As we, together, share in the families, our homes, our parishes. responsibility for vocations, let Pope St. John Paul II understood us turn to God confidently, ask- this fact. Raised in a devout ing him to give us in the Diocese home in Poland, it was the faith of Bridgeport, more good, holy, of his parents that first inspired faithful priests and religious to him. As priest and bishop, he serve us for years to come. sought out families and encour- The following prayer is recited aged their faith. In his Petrine daily by the seminarians at St. ministry, St. John Paul II would John Fisher Seminary. Please write at length about the various consider saying it as a family: 24 May 2014 Vocations Celebration honors consecrated life

By PAT HENNESSY and Brothers provide compas- north of India. A huge country, Mass on Sunday evenings. We sionate care in hospitals and nurs- India has 18 official languages. have a men’s ministry, a prayer “Religious life is a special call,” ing homes, visit the elderly, teach He had to adjust not only to a group, Bible study, Knights of says Father James Vattakunnel, in Catholic schools and religious new language but to new food, Columbus. We’re encouraging VC, parochial vicar at Our Lady education and run after-school clothes—unfamiliar ways of doing people to get together, to pray of Fatima Parish in Wilton. “If programs, offer hospitality, work everything. “Part of our formation together, to share the develop- we are prepared to answer that with youth and assist in a variety program is to learn different lan- ment of our faith,” he says. call, God will take care of the rest. of ministries at parishes. guages and customs,” he says. Joy and Faith That’s the heart of it.” A diocesan Celebration of His next posting was to God’s call to religious life Father James, as he is popu- Consecrated Life to be held on Tanzania, Africa. “The two of us comes in a surprising mix of larly called, is a Vincentian priest, May 21 at St. Luke Parish in who were sent there were the only circumstances. “When I was serving in this diocese with the Westport, will honor their con- Vincentian priests on the entire little, I’d see the Sisters in their approval of his religious order, tributions to the life of faith in continent,” he recalls. In his ten habits walking and praying the which is based in India. His com- Fairfield County and recognize years there, he and his brother Rosary,” says Sister Maria Mater munity is dedicated to assisting the jubilees of women and men priests worked with 15 mission Providencia, SSVM, a member of priests and building up the life religious who have spent their centers, building churches and the Institute of the Servants of the of the Church wherever they are lives in answer to God’s call. building up a Catholic community. Lord and the Virgin of Matará. called. Father James is observing his Africa now has 36 Vincentian The Sisters’ joy and faith “There are nine men’s com- 25th jubilee this year. He was priests. touched her heart, but teenage munities, 31 of women, and one born and raised in Kerala, India, Father James Vattakunnel, VC It’s quite a leap from building years and their promise of fun society of Apostolic Life in the and ordained to the Vincentian community in a poor rural area pushed that thought aside. It was Diocese of Bridgeport,” notes Congregation there. “I was an of Africa and building up a sense rudely brought back to her one Sister Nancy Strillacci, ASCJ, altar boy in the sixth grade, and The Vincentian Community of community in largely affluent day when she was rummaging in a the delegate for Religious for the from that time on I prayed every is a missionary order, and he Wilton. Yet for Father James, the closet. “A book fell out at me—St. diocese. Religious priests, Sisters, day for my vocation,” he recalls. was first sent to a mission in the calling remains the same. Theresa’s ‘Story of a Soul.’ God “I visit hospitals and nursing was hitting me on the head, like St. homes. I’m involved with the Paul on the road to Damascus,” school and religious education she says. She pauses and laughs. Bishop Frank J. Caggiano and I enjoy saying the Life Teen ➤ continued on page 26 cordially invites you to attend The 25th American Cardinals Dinner A scholarship dinner for students at The Catholic University of America honoring Cardinals Francis George, Seán O’Malley, Daniel DiNardo, Donald Wuerl, and Timothy Dolan May 30, 2014 Mass 4:30 p.m.• St. Patrick’s Cathedral Reception and Dinner 6:15 p.m.• Waldorf Astoria Hotel New York City For tickets and more information, visit cardinalsdinner.cua.edu

THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF AMERICA 25 May 2014 Vocations Brother Priests 2014 Jubilarians of the By REV. CANON him, four were brothers. There is ALBERT WATTS no doubt his choice was deliber- ate because we hear that after he Diocese of Bridgeport We are told “tempus fugit,” called them, “He immediately left that is, “time flies,” and indeed and entered the house of Peter and Priests there are times when we all reach Andrew, with James and John.” 65 Years (1949) a point in life when we stop and Though both Msgr. Roger and say, “Where did time go?” I have retired, we have continued Father But for my brother, Msgr. in priestly ministry, working in Aloysius J. Hribsek Roger Watts, and myself, it is like various ways because we feel that yesterday that Bishop Lawrence J. one does not ever really retire Shehan (later Cardinal) laid hands from working in Christ’s vineyard 60 Years (1954) on us during ordination 55 years of salvation. ago as we lay side by side on the We continue because we sanctuary floor while our parents believe. If we let Jesus bless and Joseph D. Potter in the front pew watched and break the little we can give after 55 Years (1959) Monsignor Nicholas V. Grieco Father Albert W. Watts 25 Years (1989) Deacons Monsignor Father 25 Years (1989) Roger J. Watts Russell A. Augustine Deacon John F. Esterheld Father Joseph Cervero Deacon Harold J. Lynch 50 Years (1964) Father Remigius Nwabichie Father Grazioso Artuso Father 10 Years (2004) James Vattakunnel, V.C. Monsignor Deacon Joseph P. DeBiase rother riests ather lbert and sgr oger atts Matthew Bernelli Deacon William A. Koniers B P F A M . R W 10 Years (2004) Father Deacon Father Peter A. Cipriani listened as the choir prayed the 55 years as priests, and if we think Carducci S. D’Amico John M. Linsenmeyer Litany of Saints. we have something to give, we Father David Riley Father Pawel M. Hrebenko Deacon Robert E. Morris There are some families that will never cease to give. Even at Monsignor Father Leonel S. Medeiros Deacon are blessed with God having our age, we know God will bless called two brothers to the priest- whatever we give, and we believe John B. Sabia Father Terrence P. Walsh Robert A. Salvestrini hood. But it seems we were espe- we will then have even more left cially blessed because we were over to give, even to the next gen- called and ordained as priests eration of priests to come. together on the very same day, The message we give here to June 5, 1959, at St. Augustine the next generation is that from Cathedral in Bridgeport. the first moment of our ordination Since Bishop Shehan ordained we have opened ourselves totally us, we have served our diocese to him who was saying, “Follow together for some 110 years me.” And we have never lost combined. anything by following. Do not be This is the not the first time afraid of what Christ asks; he takes brothers were together called by the nothing away and he gives every- Lord to follow him. We are told, thing because the reality is that “And passing along, Jesus saw when we give ourselves to him, we Peter and his brother Andrew… receive a hundredfold in return. and Jesus said to them, ‘Follow (Editor’s Note: Natives of Fall me… I will make you fishers of River, Mass., Msgr. Roger Watts men.’ And immediately they fol- and Canon Albert Watts served in lowed him” (Mark 1:16-17). a variety of posts in the Diocese of “And going on a little far- Bridgeport. Msgr. Watts is known ther, he saw James and John his to many for his work in Catholic brother… and immediately he Charities and his service as pastor of called them and they left their St. Cecilia Parish in Stamford from father Zebedee in the boat with 1984 until his retirement in 1999. All for just his hired men, and they followed Canon Watts served as pastor of St. For more information or to register, contact: him” (Mark 1:20). Ambrose Parish in Bridgeport and as $2,500/foursome or It is remarkable to note that of Defender of the Bond in the Diocesan $650/individual golfer Amy Zajac: (203) 416-1336 • [email protected] the twelve Jesus called to follow Tribunal.) n $125/attend awards banquet 26 May 2014 Sports SHU senior Men’s Golf champion

By JOE RYAN Championships took place on round ever in college. I hit 18 greens April 12-13 with Ballo shooting which I had only done a handful of Sacred Heart University’s a nine under par 135 to win by a times in my life so it really set up Peter Ballo capped off his college stroke. He had a blistering round the second day.” career with three straight wins as of 65 on Saturday to go into the The senior called it the best golf he shot a six-under 66 on May clubhouse with a four-stroke lead, of his college career, and he was 4 in the final round of the 2014 and he would need all of that named the Northeast Conference Northeast Conference Men’s cushion to hold off the charge of Men’s Golfer of the Week for the Golf Championship at LPGA Hartford’s Evan Russell. Ballo’s second week in a row. International Champions Course, score of 70 on Sunday was enough “Sacred Heart has been a winning individual medalist hon- to hold off the late charge of great experience,” said Ballo. “I ors in a playoff against first round Russell. The Pioneers team came couldn’t ask for a better school leader Ryan Tombs of Bryant. in third in the ten-team event. and a better group of kids.” Ballo has been on an unbeliev- “Rhode Island sort of kick start- Now it is back to work. Ballo able roll since the beginning of ed everything,” said Ballo. “With all graduates this spring and intends April. The Stamford native won the hard work I had put in, I knew to compete on the amateur cir- the Rhody Invitational during I was on the verge of something. It cuit this summer in hopes of the first weekend of the month just felt good and everything was qualifying for the Connecticut for his first collegiate win ever. SACRED HEART’S PETER BALLO caps his college career with month-long going right for me for the first round Golf Association and Metro Golf He followed that victory by heroics and a great finish at New England Championships. the next week, it was my lowest first Association teams in the fall. n grabbing the D-I New England Championship title. Consecreted Life from page 24 “This is the first time I’ve been His father, Mike, Sr., was a spectacular. He was scoring well on a streak like this,” said Ballo. professional golfer and mother, enough, but just outside the top “But maybe not as dramatic.” have taken her to a number of dif- “I hope I can keep this up.” Paige, was an All-American in group. The long winter which fol- She was at the university ferent postings. Whether she is sta- Ballo’s month-long heroics college. He had followed in his lowed did not help, but he never by then, studying to become a tioned in California or Brooklyn, were not just a great finish to his brother Mike’s footsteps with the lost his confidence. lawyer. “By that point, it was a N.Y., watching a game with season but gave validation to a Trinity’s Crusaders in high school “Fall was okay, I played well. sacrifice for me to avoid thinking students at the university or teach- tough decision he made two years and then to St. Johns. All three I finished in the top-25 in all the about religious ing Confirmation ago. Ballo was already on his were sounding boards while he events in the fall, so it was a good life.” After a year class at St. way to a stellar college career. He made his decision. solid fall for me,” said Ballo. “I and a half at the George, those finished his sophomore season Rob LaRosa of Sterling Farms just started slow coming out of university she activities are not as the fourth-best golfer in the Golf Club stepped in to offer his the winter. It was a little bit of a gave in to God’s the center of her conference and was an All-Big help. He worked with Ballo at the struggle but I knew it was going call and discov- calling. East selection as a member of Sterling Farms facilities to keep to come around because of all the ered the beauty of “I’m the St. Johns University team when his skills sharp. “I worked out work I had put in.” community life, spouse of Christ,” the off-course antics of some of every day at Sterling Farms with The pay-off came in Rhode a beauty she had she says. “I’m his Red Storm teammates soured Rob LaRosa and he kind of took Island as Ballo felt the first sensa- first sensed as a called to be a him on the program. Instead of me under his wing,” said Ballo. tions of his golf game starting to child. good religious, staying in an uncomfortable situa- “I was very lucky to have all the thaw from the long winter at the Sisters of a true spouse tion, Ballo took a year away from support I had.” Rhody Invitational during the first her convent of Christ, and a golf and searched for a new col- Ballo returned to the collegiate weekend in April. His victory in in Bridgeport good mother to lege program. circuit with Sacred Heart and has Rhode Island was the first individ- work with the all the souls who The former Trinity Catholic called it the best decision of his life. ual event of his college career. The young adults at are entrusted to standout received support from He had a solid junior campaign experience at the Rhody Invitational the University me. They are the his friends and family during and came into his senior year look- laid the groundwork for his success of Bridgeport children God has his time off. Ballo comes from ing to make major strides. In the in Uncasville a week later. and help in the given me.” a family of successful golfers. fall, his play was solid if not yet The New England apostolate for the In recogni- Spanish-speaking Sister Maria Mater tion of their life at St. George Providencia of devotion, Parish. “It’s Pope Francis has The Intrinsic Value of the Fairfield County Newspaper harder now than when I was a stu- dedicated 2015 as the “Year of The most trusted newspaper in Connecticut dent,” she says. “When we’re with Consecrated Life.” Opening litur- them, they usually don’t want to gies will be held in November of Value • Loyalty • Respect • Perception talk about faith. So we walk the this year. “We will be planning Incredible Credibility – Perception Is Reality campus and pray, and go to the special initiatives in this diocese The paper is received with trust and respect and therefore, so is the advertiser. soccer games, and invite them to to celebrate the distinct charisms Our readers, your customers, appreciate seeing who they do business with in their paper! stop into the chapel to pray.” of religious communities, all with Flexibility and Convenience Students seem to feel most at rich traditions of spirituality and One ad, one bill, all of Fairfield County ease with the no-commitment service,” says Sister Nancy. The most cost efficient way to complement all your existing advertising. offer to drop into the chapel when Father James, looking back they feel stressed. “For them it’s on 25 as a Vincentian, captures Direct Mail, Postal Audited, 100,000+ Circulation easier to pray in secret,” says the essence of his service in Free standing inserts by zip-code and town available Sister Providencia, noting that just a couple of simple phrases. For more info or questions about advertising in Fairfield County Catholic open discussion of faith is uncom- “Whatever comes, God is always please call or email Ralph Lazzaro 203.416.1462 or [email protected] fortable for many young people. at the center. That’s the beauty of www.bridgeportdiocese.com/fcc Her 15 years of religious life religious life.” n 27 May 2014 Sports Softball teams get off to fast starts

By JOE RYAN energy at the beginning of their bat in the lineup. Center-fielder Saturday tilt with Notre Dame. MacKenzie Dobbins has been the Kolbe’s pitcher Victoria leader in the outfield. The Kolbe and Notre Trentini breezed through the Stefanatos thinks the influx of Dame of Fairfield girls’ first three innings. The junior talent has helped everybody on softball teams have held the Lancers scoreless on the team play better. She said that one hit while striking out three. players may have been trying too already had plenty of Meanwhile, the Cougar offense hard before, but now they trust reasons to celebrate with had built a 3-0 lead. Trentini each other. If they make an error reached base on a fielders’ choice or an out it is not the end of the the seasons they have put and came around to score on a world. together. Both programs long double by Karia Grajeda. “We have a team that can sup- An error allowed Grajeda to cross port each other,” said Stefanatos. got off to fast starts, the plate for a 2-0 lead in the “That’s helped a lot with my which put them right first inning. Kolbe added to their game, too.” advantage with another run in the Kolbe is a little bit ahead of in the mix in the SWC third frame. Simone Hopwood Notre Dame in terms of devel- conference. led off with a triple and scam- opment. Their coach, Dave pered home on a ground out for a KOLBE’S VICTORIA TRENTINI makes spectacular catch. A veteran pitcher, Hennessey, said the team is a Notre Dame’s Lancers 3-0 edge. she is also an honor student. veteran unit which has made the came into this season with low The Lancers cut that lead to tournament before. That means expectations after two less than 3-1 on a run-scoring single by the bar has been raised and his stellar campaigns and a very Maddie Letizia but the Cougars as the assistant at Notre Dame nice core with Stefanatos anchor- expectation of what they can young squad, but they have put struck back for three runs in since leaving Kolbe. The Lancers ing the infield at third base. The accomplish has as well. together an impressive 9-4 record the bottom of the fifth inning. have already qualified for the junior brings a powerful bat and Seniors Richel Soto, Lehayla under new coach Ron Barber. Infield singles by Kanny Rivera state tournament and the feeling good defense in her arsenal and Cruz and Grajeda provide a lot of Meanwhile, the Kolbe’s Cougars and Alyssa Collazo set the table around the Lancers was positive. Barber believes that she has the leadership, and young talent like have continued on their upward before Trentini plated Rivera According to Barber, they have talent to make All-State. Emily sophomore Rivera at shortstop assent towards the top of the con- with a base hit. Collazo and already exceeded expectations but Scofield is the shortstop, and the have been big contributors. ference with a 7-3 mark, includ- Trentini would also score before still have room to improve. sophomore transfer has teamed Trentini gives the team a solid ing an 8-3 win over Notre Dame the end of the inning for a 6-1 “We had had two very bad with Stefanatos to provide a place to start from as their pitch- on May 3. advantage. seasons but we knew we had solid left side of the infield for er. “She is very solid. She has So it could be the start of a The Lancers inched closer a good group of sophomores the Lancers. Letizia is a fresh- been pitching for a long time,” budding rivalry between the two in the sixth inning as Becky and freshmen coming in,” said man who has become the ace in said Hennessey. “She’s an honor schools. Stefanatos provided the key hit Barber. “Kolbe is still ahead of the circle and provides and solid student and a great athlete.” n The game had originally been on a long double for two runs but us. We may have qualified for the scheduled for April 30, but rain Kolbe added two more runs in tournament, we may get double- forced postponement. That set the bottom of the frame to put the digit wins but we’re not quite up a scenario where both had to game out of reach at 8-3. there yet. We’re still a work in The “Original” Italian play back to back, on Friday and The result may have been a progress. They’re a young group. Saturday. Maybe it was the fact disappointment, but the outlook They work hard. They always that Kolbe had just lost a tough from Barber was positive. The show up for practice and they are Feast of 2-0 decision to Oxford, but the first-year coach was the coach of always here on time.” Cougars seemed to have more Kolbe until 2010 and had served Notre Dame has put together a Saint Anthony JUNE 6, 7, & 8 Fisher is home from page 22 St. Margaret Shrine, 2523 Park Ave., Bridgeport several applicants are scheduled visit the current Fisher Seminary studying at a major seminary H Friday, June 6...... 6-11 pm to enter this coming fall. In total, when he was 15 years old. Its in Rome, “Fisher was always a H Saturday, June 7...... 2-11 pm there are over 20 men in priestly chapel was painstakingly and home for me when I came back,” H Sunday, June 8...... 12-10 pm formation for Bridgeport who are lovingly planned and restored by Father Kachuba said. H Sunday Outdoor Mass/Procession ...... 10 am studying either at Fisher House Fisher’s first rector, Monsignor For Father Kinnally, Fisher with Bishop Frank J. Caggiano or other major seminaries on the Stephen DiGiovanni. “It is still House remains most importantly East Coast or in Rome. my favorite place in the world a home of prayer. “This is where Fabulous Rides for the Kids! Rides open for the entire Feast! After 25 years in operation, to pray,” Father Kachuba said. I really learned how to pray,” he Admission 99¢ - children under 12 FREE more than 92 men ordained for “The whole question of my said. “Now that I have become the Diocese of Bridgeport have priesthood was really answered in rector, I really want it to feel like H For your Entertainment H Famous Groups spent time in formation at St. John this chapel.” home for everyone here; a home H Tony RenoBand: Friday, 7-10 H Fisher. These alumni attest to the During their discernment and where prayer is the most impor- H DJ Brian: Saturday Day, 2-6 H success of Fisher Seminary and its formation, both Father Kinnally tant thing.” H Fantasia: Saturday Night, 7-11 H mission. “It has been very fruit- and Father Kachuba spent time at Father Kinnally added that H DJ Brian: Sunday Day, 1-5 H ful,” Father Kinnally said, adding the current Fisher House. Because he is especially grateful for those H H that “some other dioceses have of their experience, they want all who come to the adoration cha- I’Luguri: Sunday Night, 6-10 even looked to Fisher as a model seminarians, staff, alumni and pel at St. John fisher to pray for 3 days of live entertainment all singing your favorite melodies! for their own priestly discernment visitors to have the opportunity to seminarians, clergy and religious. Largest variety of Italian food specialties, and formation programs.” experience Fisher as “home.” “Their prayers have made a huge Italian/American music, raffle, rides & games Father Kachuba first came to When he spent five years impact,” he said. n 28 May 2014 Fairfield University A contest with Jesuit values Last year, Fairfield school’s value of the Catholic, industrious and imaginative mix Jesuit mission and the impor- of undergraduate students from University’s Dolan tance of teaching liberal arts in Fairfield University’s Dolan School of Business the classroom—especially ethics, School of Business, the School service and civic–mindedness (or of Engineering and College of launched a major univer- as Dean Donald Gibson calls it, Arts & Sciences who pooled their sity-wide competition— “a liberal education”). knowledge and skill-sets to devel- This year’s competition, which op viable business plans. the Student Business has two separate tracks, has just The winners of the social Plan Competition. come to a close. Its social track track were the students behind consisted of new organizations “BoneSmart,” a wearable, wire- Undergraduates were asked to that attempt to resolve a pressing less, non-invasive medical device come up with ideas for non-profit social problem that markets have to measure bone mineral density businesses or “social enterprises,” failed to resolve. The venture loss and blood flow. It can be where the bottom line and market track consisted of new business equally beneficial to the many share are not the primary con- ideas with a commercial focus. men and women who suffer cerns. This speaks to the business The finalists included an chronically from osteoporosis, SOLVING A SOCIAL PROBLEM, the “BoneSmart” team developed a wearable, wireless, non-invasive medical device to measure bone mineral den- sity loss and blood flow. (l-r) Michael Raymond; Stephanie Sutherby; Robert Garrone; Ralph Belfiore; Dr. Donald Gibson, dean of the Charles F. Dolan School of Business; and Bernardo Navarro. erhaps the greatest joy in retiring is which can lead to brittle and eas- their liberal arts background—a P knowing you can live life to its fullest. ily fractured bones; those needing background that expands their to monitor bone healing; and thinking beyond the bottom line Maintaining your indepen- people suffering from Celiac dis- to consider how to make the dence and helping you enjoy ease. world a better place.” It can also be a helpful device In the venture track for com- life is our only goal at Carmel for astronauts living for extended mercial enterprises, the first place Ridge and Teresian Towers. periods in a weightless condition, winner was “VentureOut,” an Located on the grounds of a situation that causes bone den- app to enable young profession- sity loss. als to gain access to microcosms St. Joseph’s Manor, our Team members were Robert of platonic, social meet-ups unique retirement commu- Garrone of Islip, Long Island, so that they can cultivate new nity provides the support and an electrical engineering major; friendships and network in new Ralph Belfiore, a Dolan School cities. Second place was “Valet,” security you may need to live student; Bernardo Navarro of a multi-faceted tool to benefit life to its fullest, including Bethel, an accounting and eco- golfers and manage golf courses 24-hour medical and security nomics double major; Stephanie accessible from any web-enabled services, nursing staff, shopping Sutherby of Ipswich, Mass., an device. engineering major; and Michael The competition has intro- transportation, and optional Raymond, of Amityville, L.I., duced “a whole new style of meal plan. Day-to-day living is also an engineering major. learning,” in Dean Gibson’s enhanced by an on-site chapel, Second place in the social words, to students inter- track was the team behind ested in entrepreneurism, library, recreation hall, crafts “UXchange”—a business plan for and complements the Dolan room, swimming pool, and a website where college students School of Business’s popular nearby golfing. can donate no longer needed text- Entrepreneurship Program offer- books and other school items to ings. That program has also led to students who can’t afford them. the FAME, a business incubator Team members are Guadalupe program that was launched last We would like to help you Ramirez of Bridgeport, an infor- year with the Town of Fairfield make the next years the finest mation systems major in the and Kleban Properties. of your life. To receive more Dolan School of Business; Rheem Faculty from the Dolan Deceased April 2, 2014 Al Barazi of Morocco, who is School, the College of Arts information or to sched- studying international business; & Sciences and the School of ule a visit, call 1-800-852-3866 in Connecticut or 203-261-2229 from out of and John Bica of Shelton. Engineering served as advisors state. Units from $58,000. Inquire about our Rental Program starting from “The social enterprise track to student teams as did business seeks plans that address social professionals and alumni. The $995 per month. problems that the capital markets competition was made possible have failed to resolve,” said Dean by generous donations from Gibson. “This quest—to discover Mary Lincoln Campbell MA ’72; Teresian Towers/Carmel Ridge Estates sustainable ways to address press- Joseph Bronson ’70; Hugh Davis 6454 Main Street • Trumbull, Connecticut 06611 ing problems—exemplifies the ’95; and Chris Stephens, Jr., a A non-denominational facility owned by the Diocese of Bridgeport. Professionally managed by Winn Residential. Dolan School’s emphasis on busi- member of the Dolan School’s ness students who benefit from Advisory Council. n 29 May 2014 Youth Raise a ruckus for the Lord

By JULIE ROGERS who are willing to open their heart and stand in front of hun- “I expect a ruckus!” When I dreds of kids to share their own heard these words of the Holy story of conversion despite their Father Pope Francis, I felt a surge fears. I’ve seen young people of emotion and excitement well who take the risk to say “yes” to up within me. Pope Francis con- a call to discern the priesthood tinued to ask us all: “Will there and consecrated life and others be a ruckus here in Rio? There who are willing to commit to will be! I want a ruckus in the a lifelong marriage blessed by dioceses!” God. Instantly I realized I was I also know that there are not alone as a roar of applause many young people who are surged from the three million searching for an answer and have young people on ’s yet to have had an adequate Copacabana beach. A ruckus response to the many challenges is what our own Holy Father and obstacles they face in their expects as a consequence of everyday life. For those of us 2013. who are baptized and have found Many times during World an answer in the Lord Jesus, this Youth Day, I asked the Lord is our challenge. I recognize that Jesus what part he wanted me the Lord has entrusted to me a ENERGETIC AND FULL OF LIFE, Julie Rogers, MCR, the new youth director of the diocese, encourages youth at to play in our own Diocese the Convivio retreat held in March. (Photo by Amy Mortensen) mission to serve the youth of our of Bridgeport. As always, he diocese and all those apostles responds to my questions, but who work with them. rarely in the way I expect or go out onto the streets, I want the world, to go out and reach my new mission: through my I am particularly excited about imagine. Following the months us to resist everything worldly, the lost and the searching, to go leadership at Convivio, helping the hundreds of young people after World Youth Day, the Lord everything static, everything com- beyond what is comfortable in with the High School Apostles who will participate in the youth showed me that the way he want- fortable, everything to do with order that all people may know program, and participating in sessions and the 30 appointed ed me to participate was to take clericalism, everything that might Christ. It was this spirit which many events around the diocese. youth delegates to the 2014 on the job as director of the youth make us closed in on ourselves!” attracted me to give my life to I have seen young people who Synod. Young people are touched for the diocese. Our community, the Marian God as a consecrated laywoman. are willing to stand up for their by the way that our own bishop What exactly did the Holy Community of Reconciliation, It is this same spirit which I rec- faith even amidst persecution in is not afraid to listen to what they Father mean by “ruckus” you was founded by a group of young ognize in the youth in our own their schools and universities. I actually think and what they have may ask? He continued, “I want people who really did want to diocese who have had a real have seen young people who are to say. I believe in these young you to make yourselves heard in make a “ruckus” of things. In encounter with Jesus Christ. willing to step outside of their people and I believe this synod your dioceses, I want the noise other words, it is in our founding In his providence, God has comfort zones and become apos- will be a chance to make a real to go out, I want the Church to spirit: this deep desire to change prepared me in many ways for tles to their peers, young people “ruckus!” n

Rector remembers from page 21 ferred martyrdom rather than The next step was to find stu- class, five were later ordained provided the diocese a means to But after a little while, I simply deny Christ and the Successor of dents, both college undergradu- priests: Fathers Richard Murphy, nurture candidates who possessed had to laugh and appreciate St. Peter when King Henry VIII ates and graduate students, who Michael Dunn, Paul Murphy, a vocation to the priesthood and their initiative: priests should broke from Rome and began his would enter into the program Thomas Nicastro and Michael help them develop the healthy be obedient to their superiors, own government religion, the of prayer, study and disciplined Flynn. human qualities to become effec- but question the dumb decisions Anglican Church. life to determine if God was In 1994, we moved the St. tive priests. those superiors might make on On June 22, 1989, the Feast calling them to the priesthood. I John Fisher Seminary Residence During the first year in occasion. of St. John Fisher, Bishop Egan began advertising in parish bul- to Stamford, to another convert- Trumbull, never having admin- After 25 years, the St. John formally established the St. John letins, and put an article in the ed, abandoned convent, because istered a seminary, I decided we Fisher Seminary Residence is a Fisher Seminary Residence. Fairfield County Catholic and in we had outgrown the Trumbull would follow what I remembered success. Bishop Egan knew what The students were to study the Bridgeport Post. To my amaze- building that had been filled with as my early college seminary he was doing, and I am grateful philosophy and theology at ment, young men responded, 18 students: two of whom slept in years in Bloomfield. Then, in that he appointed me to help found Sacred Heart University. The though many people were offices, since we had only 16 stu- 1969, the heat was never turned Fisher. They were some of the hap- Fisher Residence would provide uncertain at first that there were dent rooms on the second floor. on until Thanksgiving. It was piest of my 37 years as a priest. them with a structured life of enough vocations! Of the hundreds who applied freezing in the old St. Thomas Please pray for vocations to daily Mass and prayer, common The first student accepted over the years, and the scores Seminary in Bloomfied, but I sur- the priesthood and religious life in meals, household chores, classes was Richard Murphy—now who actually entered the Fisher vived, so, I determined, the eight our diocese. Pray that God sends in Latin and Greek, some phi- Father Richard Murphy, pastor Residence, 92 have been ordained men would do likewise. us more men who love Our Lord losophy courses, and Patristic of Our Lady of Peace Parish in to the priesthood. After denying their repeated and his Catholic Church, willing Theology. The students paid no Stratford—then a member of St. Not everyone who applied was requests to turn the heat on, I to emulate St. John Fisher in the tuition or charges for room and Mary Parish, Stamford. By the accepted; not everyone accepted received a phone call from my holiness of his life, the quality of board. All they were required to time we opened in late August, was ordained, and that was part mother: “Stephen,” she rebuked his scholarship, and devotion to do was to enter into the program we had eight men accepted; of the original design and plan for me, “why are you being cruel to the Successor of St. Peter. seriously, live by the rule, and by the end of the first semes- Fisher. Not only did the Fisher those boys? Turn on that heat!” (Msgr. DiGiovanni is pastor of study and pray about their pos- ter, we numbered 13. Among Residence offer local men a place At first I was livid that they the Basilica of St. John the Evangelist sible vocation to the priesthood. those accepted for that first to discern a vocation, it also had dared phone my mother. Parish in Stamford.) n 30 May 2014 Columnist Finding compassion–easier said than done

Naturally, we believed her because would be lying. learn the hard way that being com- she raised three kids, and all that Even though Mom’s skills as passionate is far more Christ-like Swimming Upstream experience had to count for some- an armchair psychologist left a lot than being judgmental. Compassion thing. Right? Uhh, not right. to be desired, her outlook led me is central to Christ’s message even By Joe Pisani Looking back over the years, to a new understanding of life. though it is often rare among so- I calculate this particular daugh- You see, she always thought the called religious people. ter went through many different best of people—even annoying It certainly was rare in my phases, and each was more chal- people. She was tolerant of their life. As a rebellious teenager, I Joe Pisani has been a writer lenging than the previous one. shortcomings and idiosyncracies. had a barometer in my brain that and editor for 30 years. From infancy to toddlerhood to She never tore down and always measured hypocrisy in adults. puberty to adolescence, to what- tried to build up. She understood To my thinking, they talked the ever came after that, and well into the importance of that amazing talk but didn’t walk the walk, and adulthood, there was a new and virtue called “compassion.” whenever I went to Sunday Mass Back when my wife and I were “patience.” exciting phase every few years, Humorist Erma Bombeck once with my mother, I would take going through parent boot camp, My mother, however, always and sometimes every few months. said, “It is not until you become everybody’s inventory ... except we faced some monumental chal- came to the rescue during our She’s still going through a a mother that your judgment my own. lenges. Our first daughter drove training period and tried to com- “phase,” perhaps the longest slowly turns to compassion and “Why do they even bother to go us absolutely crazy—so crazy we fort us with the notion that this phase in the annals of child psy- understanding.” to church?” I’d grumble. “They’re sometimes wondered whether we cute little girl was just “going chology. We love her just the That’s one of the most pro- all hypocrites, they’re phonies.” had the necessary qualifications through a phase.” same. I wish I could say we grew foundly Christian statements I’ve Her response was always the to be good parents because we “It will pass,” she assured us. as parents from the experience ever heard. same: “They go to church because lacked one basic ingredient called “Don’t make a big deal out of it.” and were more patient, but that Not being a mother, I had to ➤ continued on page 33

Deceased Clergy of the Diocese of Bridgeport: May 18—June 28 FUNERAL GUIDE May NEIL F. HARDING 18 Msgr. Charles B. Ratajczak, O.F.M...... 1957 Director/Owner Collins 19 Rev. William H. Sullivan...... 1980 Funeral Home 23 Rev. Thomas M. Garrick...... 1955 Deacon Hans Jakob Gram...... 2010 92 East Avenue • Norwalk 24 Rev. Mark Grimes...... 2008 866-0747 25 Rev. Joseph A. Ganley...... 1957 William A. Skidd William G. Lahey, Jr. 27 Rev. Joseph F. Sohovich...... 1957 William R. Kelley William P. Skidd 28 Rev. John P. McNerney...... 1969 Harding Andrew D. Skidd 29 Msgr. John J. Barney...... 1973 Rev. Harry Holbrook...... 2005 FUNERAL HOME Family owned for four generations 30 Rev. Adelard A. Jalbert...... 1960 31 Rev. Dennis A. Szocs, O.F.M...... 1985

Pre-need Funeral Planning June 1 Rev. Msgr. Jean C. Tetreault...... 2003 Matthew K. Murphy, 2 Rev. Thomas M. Ford...... 1992 Funeral Director 3 Rev. Michael F. Blanchard...... 1982 Rev. Richard J. Grady...... 1993 267 Greenwich Avenue 203/227-3458 5 Msgr. John Hayes...... 1964 Greenwich, CT 06830 FAX 203/227-1420 6 Rev. Thomas J. Hanley...... 1954 203-869-0315 Msgr. Edward J. Howley...... 2012 7 Rev. James J. Dennis...... 2003 8 Msgr. Bernard S. Scanlon...... 2004 210 POST ROAD EAST 9 Msgr. James G. Lengen...... 1999 WESTPORT, CT 06881 Rev. James J. O’Malley...... 1996 “Quiet Dignity Without Extravagance” 13 Deacon Anthony LaBua...... 1988 Affordable Direct Cremation 14 Msgr. William F. Kearney...... 1974 Title XIX Welcome 15 Msgr. John H. Landry...... 1967 19 Rev. Robert S. McBride...... 1982 20 Msgr. John J. Bumstead...... 1996 21 Rev. Albert D. Talbot...... 1962 22 Rev. Xavier Renda...... 2009 Z Family owned for three generations Z Handling every detail 24 Rev. Frankln J. Corrigan...... 1974 Z Call for free informative brochure Z In home arrangements 25 Rev. Albert A. Tomasko...... 1978 Z 203-254-1414 or 800-542-0218 Z Memorial service facility 27 Rev. J. Barry Furey...... 2012 28 Rev. John J. Draper...... 1966 31 May 2014 Synod 2014 ‘Building Bridges to the Future Together’

By DR. JOAN KELLY 19, 2014, and ending on is convened by a bishop when he September 19, 2015. Each of the deems it necessary (Canon #461). The Second Vatican Council 83 parishes of the diocese will The delegates to a diocesan synod (1962-65), a solemn and official have two delegates. The parish have consultative status. The Adult Formation assembly of all the bishops of the councils and other parish lay bishop alone is the legislator. Dr .Joan Kelly will offer a course called world, was convoked by Pope leaders will submit to their pastor Let us join in prayer that our St. John XXIII (1958-1963) and names of nominees. The pastor diocesan synod will bear much “Synods and Councils in Ancient charged with renewing the spirit will select two delegates from fruit as we journey forward of Catholicism in order to more these candidates to participate as “Building Bridges to the Future and Modern Times” effectively General Together.” at Notre Dame High School in Fairfield during July. address the Delegates (Dr. Joan Kelly, a graduate of challenges to the the School of Religious Studies at It will be held every Tuesday and Thursday morning of modern Synod. the Catholic University of America society. These lay in Washington, D.C., is on the fac- (10 am-12 noon) beginning Tuesday, July 8, Pope St. representa- ulty at Holy Apostles College and and ending on Thursday, July 31. John XXIII tives will Seminary in Cromwell and teaches referred to join with at St. John Fisher Seminary in the Council priests, Stamford. She is engaged with the To register, contact Gina Donnarummo as a “new deacons, theological formation of the diocesan Pentecost.” religious candidates for the permanent diacon- diocesan director of adult education: One as well as ate and is an adjunct professor at [email protected] or 203.416.1446. of the representa- Sacred Heart University.) n Council’s tives from crowning Catholic achieve- schools, Cemetery Offices ments was religious BRIDGEPORT-STRATFORD the Dogmatic educa- St. Michael Cemetery Constitution on the Church, pro- tion, youth and other ecclesial 2205 Stratford Avenue mulgated on November 21, 1964. movements to form the official Stratford, CT 06615 Chapter Four of the Constitution membership of general delegates (203) 378-0404 DANBURY titled “The Laity” assumes great to Synod 2014. The fruit of their St. Peter Cemetery significance as we approach the labor will ultimately be revealed 71 Lake Avenue Extension opening of our diocesan synod, in the implementation stage, the Danbury, CT 06810 “Building Bridges to the Future final phase of Synod 2014. (203) 743-9626 Together.” Synod 2014 is an his- DARIEN St. John Cemetery Our diocesan synod includes torical event in the Diocese of 25 Camp Avenue three stages: the preparatory Bridgeport. Throughout the his- Darien, CT 06820 stage; the Diocesan Synod (Synod tory of the Church, local synods (203) 322-0455 2014) itself; and the implemen- have established customs and GREENWICH St. Mary - Putnam Cemetery tation period. The preparatory practices that influence our lives 399 North Street stage is going on now and offers as Catholics down to the pres- Greenwich, CT 06830 the opportunity for the entire ent day. The Synod of Toledo (203) 869-4828 Christian faithful (clergy, reli- (589) introduced the “filioque” (203) 869-7026 gious and laity) to submit input (Latin, “and the Son”) to the To our families, NEWTOWN Resurrection Cemetery pertaining to issues currently fac- Nicene Creed; the clause was c/o Gate of Heaven Cemetery ing the Church (www.2014synod. eventually adopted by all Latin Monuments and Markers 1056 Daniels Farm Road org). Lay Catholics should see Western Christians when pro- Trumbull, CT 06611 this as a chance to fulfill the mis- fessing belief in the divinity (203) 268-5574 sion bestowed upon them by the of the Holy Spirit. The Easter Are available for purchase NORWALK St. John - St. Mary Cemetery bishops at Vatican II, who spoke Synod of Rome (1050) and the through any of our 223 Richards Avenue of the laity as “called upon to Synod of Vercelli (1050) upheld Norwalk, CT 06850 expend all their energy for the the doctrine of transubstantia- Catholic Cemetery Offices. (203) 838-4271 growth of the Church and its con- tion when Catholic belief in the STAMFORD tinuous sanctification.” real presence of Christ in the Queen of Peace Cemetery Call for an appointment or visit us. c/o St. John Cemetery The Diocese of Bridgeport’s Eucharist was under attack. 25 Camp Avenue last synod was held in 1981 under Ashes, once the sign of official Darien, CT 06820 the auspices of the late Bishop public penitents, were extended ( (203) 322-0455 Walter W. Curtis, the second to the Universal Church at the TRUMBULL We can give you a FREE estimate on adding Gate of Heaven Cemetery Bishop of Bridgeport. There were Synod of Benevento in 1091. 1056 Daniels Farm Road also synods in Bridgeport in 1961 In the 16th century the Trumbull, CT 06611 and 1971, with participation in Council of Trent (1545-63) an inscription to your existing family monument. (203) 268-5574 the former restricted solely to the required that a diocesan synod be WESTPORT clergy. convened once a year! The 1917 Assumption, Greens Farms Assumption, Kings Highway There will be 400-plus Code of Canon Law called for a Catholic Cemeteries Diocese of Bridgeport c/o St. John Cemetery delegates to the synod itself, diocesan synod only once every Administrative Office, Catholic Center 223 Richards Avenue which will be convened on five ten years. The present Code of Norwalk, CT 06850 (203) 838-4271 Saturdays beginning September Canon Law states that the synod 238 Jewett Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06606 32 May 2014 Guest Column Faith calls for climate responsibility

Vatican issued an invitation to all of us remember the aftermath This makes sense. Citizens’ Climate Lobby’s legisla- of Hurricane Sandy. Social servic- Households—meaning us and Guest Columnist tive director, Dr. Danny Richter, es are back in place, but hundreds our families—have always paid to attend as an observer. of families are still homeless. for removal of pollutants such as By Edie Cassidy Although recent popes have While economic, health and garbage pickup, sewage disposal voiced their concern about the deg- agricultural planning will miti- and recycling whether through Edie Cassidy, former diocesan radation of the environment, Pope gate some of the effects of global taxes or direct fees. It is time for Francis has gone a step farther by warming, the more tragic and cat- other producers of waste products director of Social Concerns, is group drawing attention to this grave situ- astrophic effects can only be ame- to do the same. leader of the Fairfield County chapter ation early in his papacy. He is not liorated by reducing greenhouse On the dividend side, the pro- of Citizens’ Climate Lobby. alone. Overwhelmingly, climate gas emissions. Even companies posal would have the fee collect- scientists agree that the climate is who are in the fossil fuel business ed by the government returned to warming and attribute it to human recognize this issue. all Americans in the form of an month or so ago our interested, since it aligned with influence, and many of the world’s Change is possible; it can be annual or bi-annual refund based Fairfield County the design of the May workshop religions feel it is time for people of done. But change, like charity, on the number in the household. Chapter of the Citizens’ he had organized: “Sustainable faith to become involved. begins at home. It requires us to This legislation is of interest to AClimate Lobby (CCL), Humanity, Sustainable Nature: A recent report released by take the initiative and direct our decision makers of various politi- which is an advocacy group ask- Our Responsibility,” co-spon- the Intergovernmental Panel on congressional and state legislative cal leanings and it is important ing policy makers to heed the sored by the Pontifical Academy Climate Change (IPCC) has awak- officials to take aggressive leader- for us, as citizens, to educate trend toward global warming, was of Sciences and the Pontifical ened a lot of people to the imme- ship on this problem. I quote one our legislators. Focusing our deliberating the faith community’s Academy of Social Sciences. diacy of the climate change issue. political sage, “If the political Congressional members’ attention role in addressing climate change. During the phone call, the The IPCC report is personal bad will of the people is asleep at the on this legislation is one mean- At the same time a similar discus- Vatican speaker asked that the news for the 271 million of us living wheel, then the political will of ingful way we can approach the sion was taking place at a Catholic caller write a brief summary of in coastal areas, including coastal the government is likely to be challenge of climate change. conference in the Midwest. CCL’s mission and the legisla- Fairfield County. It is bad news asleep at the wheel.” Pope Francis, in a statement One of the CCL members there tion we had proposed to reduce for our oceans, whose increased This is a matter of social to the Diplomatic Corps this picked up the phone and called carbon emissions. He then asked acidification is a “fundamental responsibility, not politics. January, phrased the climate the Vatican. She asked to speak that the summary be translated challenge to marine organisms and Scientists and economists on both imperative sharply. “What is cru- with Pope Francis. The Pope was into Spanish and sent to the Pope. ecosystems” and our food supply. ends of the political spectrum cial is responsibility on the part out at the time, so she found her- He could not say if she would or The report also warns of “extreme support a free-market approach. of all in pursuing, in a spirit of self speaking with the head of one would not receive a phone call. weather events leading to break- On the table is a market-based fraternity, policies respectful of of the pontifical commissions. She (Imagine answering your cell down of critical services such as approach to the reduction of this earth which is our common explained CCL’s purpose, which phone in the local mall and…) electricity, waste supply and health greenhouse gases: the Carbon Fee home. I recall a popular saying: is “to create a political will for a Attendance at the workshop and emergency services” and the and Dividend Act. This proposal ‘God always forgives, we some- sustainable climate.” was by invitation only; no more “breakdown of food systems, linked would charge fossil fuel producers times forgive, but when nature— The commission head thought than 86 invitations were issued. to warming.” Not a pretty picture. a fee for using the atmosphere for creation—is mistreated, she never that Pope Francis might be We were thrilled when the While that can sound extreme, discharging their waste products. forgives!’” n ST. JOSEPH’S CENTER By

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with sorrow as well. Everywhere Rodra, is at the same time the god names are Sorrow and Suffering, the Cross. What accompanies this of loving joy and prosperity. and Much-Afraid recoils from Potpourri is the insight that we only really The coming of May after a them. She complains bitterly. But learn from our sufferings. There hard winter reminds us of that as time passes she grows to love By Thomas H. Hicks are essentials we would never line in the Book of Job: “you them, and by the end of the jour- have known if we hadn’t gone shall forget your misery, or recall ney she realizes that no one but through the sufferings. it like waters that have ebbed they could have accompanied her As Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a away” (11:16). to the High Places. Thomas Hicks is a member German Lutheran pastor, theolo- I love the legend about the So we sing our song of winter gian, and anti-Nazi martyr wrote, lady “Much-Afraid.” When fled and summer soon to be. All of St. Theresa Parish in Trumbull. “Pain is the holy angel who shows Much-Afraid begins her journey that is good and beautiful has us treasures that would otherwise to the High Places she is given come again to us with the sun- remain forever hidden.” two silent companions who will light and warmth, save those we ail, bounteous May! mystery, through death to life. In Hinduism the god of tears, be with her until the end. Their still love and can see no more. n You inspire mirth, It is an obvious fact that suffer- and youth, and warm ing occupies a large place in the Finding Compassion from page 30 desire! life of every individual. As Teresa H they’re sinners.” That explanation ized this woman was one of the we find ourselves in a position We welcome you, and wish of Avila stated, “in one way or you long. another we must carry the cross seemed too facile, too unbelieve- kindest people you’d ever want to where we should be judged for (Milton, all our lives” (Interior Castle, Fifth able, and I refused to accept it. In meet, with one problem—she had our mistakes ... and instead some- Song: On May Morning) Mansion, ch.28). In his style, a heated argument, I yelled, “Your terrible taste in hats. one shows us compassion. Those Violets bloom and dogwoods Jesuit philosopher and author problem is you make excuses for My father’s approach to life was occasions can be life-changing, whiten. The air pulses with the Teilhard de Chardin observed that the way people behave!” entirely different. He drank alco- when you realize you’ve been morning song of robins and “roughly half the things in life are One woman in the parish holically until he was 50 and got shown mercy instead of being orioles. Who in our ice-bound things we undergo, or which over- always wore gaudy pillbox hats sober through the grace of God; criticized or condemned. And January could have believed it— take us without warning.” with so many feathers, bangles however, he couldn’t understand at that moment, you understand this time of apple blossoms and Life is marked with the sign of and beads that her head looked why some people didn’t make it. you’re being called by Jesus to do lilacs, this time of new leaf. Who the Cross. like Disney World on the Fourth To his thinking, they weren’t trying the same to others. in our ice-locked January could I’ve heard it said that of July, and she would parade hard enough or they weren’t hon- Mother Teresa once said, “I believe in the sounds of bird cries Catholics worship sorrow. up the aisle to the front pew and est with themselves. Like me, he would rather make mistakes in in serene, honey-sweet, misty That’s not true. But there is plop herself down like royalty. passed judgment, and having com- kindness and compassion than May dawns? But it is here. Catholicism’s recognition that She really bugged me. Mom, passion for others wasn’t easy. work miracles in unkindness We ask ourselves, is this the life is essentially tragic and you of course, defended her, but I Most of us don’t understand and hardness.” And that’s great same land that only a few months cannot live in time without living wouldn’t listen. Years later, I real- the beauty of compassion until advice for all of us. n ago lay in sheaths of snow and ice and swept by bitter winds? The stern reality of our win- ter’s long siege is over. Now the SAINTLYLIVES BY ED WALDRON long, lovely light of May falls on the streets lately so deep in snow. The first act of Die Walkure, an opera by Richard Wagner, has the line, “Thou are the spring for which I sighed in winter’s cold embrace.” These are probably the best hours, the best days of the year. These are the Elysian days, when the mornings are fresh and crisp, and the whippoorwills call at dusk. There is all this and more that we waited for through those rigorous weeks of winter. Part of May’s glory is that it comes after a hard New England winter. There is the magnificence of life returning and life renewed. I suppose this is a picture from which one can draw several les- sons. For example, it reminds us that all cares and sorrows are transient and that in the end good triumphs. Most of all, I imagine, when spring comes after a hard winter, it is fair to say it is a token that happi- ness follows on sorrow; the Paschal 34 May 2014 Bits & Pieces CONNECTIONS! Ministry “WHEN STROKE ADULT GROUP (ages 18-39, for Catholic singles 40 and over STRIKES: The Basics of Stroke single or married) is forming at HONORING ALL VETS, a Memorial Day Mass and ceremony will meet Mon., May 19, from Prevention and Life After Stroke” St. Marguerite’s, Brookfield, on will be hosted by the Knights of Columbus Cabrini Assembly 7-9 pm at St. John the Evangelist will be held at St. Vincent’s Fri., May 30 at 7 pm in church #136 on Sun., May 25, at 11:30 am at St. Andrew Parish, Parish, Stamford. (Use the side Medical Center, Bridgeport, on hall. Bring friends, open to all! Bridgeport. There will be military color corps and the K of C entrance adjacent to the rectory.) Thurs., May 22, from 12 noon–1 Refreshments served. For more Honor Guard. State and local dignitaries will attend, along with Fran Karpiej, OFS, will offer pm. Light refreshments served. info, call Maria: 203.798.6923 or Vietnam veterans who will be honored with a special presentation. a presentation on “New Age” For more info or to register, call [email protected]. A solemn ceremony on the church’s green will follow the Mass, thinking. Refreshments and fel- 877.255.7847 or www.stvincents. WINE TASTING will be held with a dedication to the veterans. A coffee social follows the lowship follow. Suggested dona- org/listenandlearn. at Holy Cross Parish, Fairfield, event. All are invited to celebrate our veterans past and present. tion: $10. For more info or for MERTON CENTER on Fri., May 30, from 7-10 pm. For more info, call the parish: 203.374.6171 reservations, go to connections- CELEBRITY BREAKFAST will Appetizers, desserts and 20+ vari- [email protected]. take place Thurs., May 22, at the eties of wine. Bring friends for a MASSES OF HEALING Holiday Inn, Bridgeport. Keynote great night out! Tickets: $25, only AND HOPE sponsored by the speaker is Cindi Bigelow. For sold in advance. For more info or Charismatic Renewal Office more info or to make a reserva- tickets, call 203.372.4595. will be offered on Mon., May tion, call the Merton Center: ENCORE CONCERT 19, at 7:30 pm at St. Lawrence 203.367.9036, ext. 15. PERFORMANCE of Parish, Shelton, with Fr. Mirek “AN EVENING UNDER ’s Les Stachurski; and Mon., June 9, THE STARS” with Frank Misérables will take place at The at 7:30 pm at Christ the King Mastrone & Friends will take Palace Theatre in Waterbury on Parish, Trumbull, with Fr. Larry place on Sat., May 24, at 8 pm Sat., May 31, at 7 pm. Tickets Carew. For more info, call at the Edgerton Center at Sacred may be purchased at the Palace 203.268.8253. Heart University, Fairfield. The Theater Box Office: 203.346.2000 CURSILLO ULTREYAS are performance is a fundraiser for or www.palacetheaterct.org. held around the diocese: Tues., Assumption Catholic School. VIP Tickets: $25. The concert perfor- May 20, at St. Bridget of Ireland tickets: $100 with dessert recep- mance comes thanks to funding Parish, Stamford, at 7:30 pm; tion with the performers; general from an anonymous donor. and Tues, June 3, at Our Lady tickets: $50; seniors and students: VINES & VIGNETTES, pm; and Sun., June 8, from 1-10 on Sat., June 7, at 11 am. Cost: of Fatima Parish, Wilton, at $25. For more info or for tickets, a garden fantasy tour, will be pm. Outdoor Mass at 10 am on $16 Adults; $12 Seniors; $10 7:30 pm. For more info, contact call 203.334.6271. held Thurs.-Sat., May 29-31, Sun. will be celebrated by Bishop Children ages 6-12; Children JeanetteBible Ad 4X6_Layoutat [email protected]. 1 5/2/14 1:33 PM PageMULTI-PARISH 1 YOUNG at the Chimneys Mansion Caggiano, followed by procession under 5 admission free. $50 maxi- in the Black Rock section of in honor of St. Anthony. For more mum per family. Tickets sold in Bridgeport. Landscape archi- info, call 203.333.9627 or email advance only. For more info or tects, nurseries and garden [email protected]. tickets, call 203.521.2390 or email antique dealers will create over SHAKESPEARE & [email protected]. 20 vignettes. Spend a day getting ENGLISH TEA fundraiser CLAMBAKE AND gardening ideas, purchasing that will take place at St. Marguerite AUCTION sponsored by the special garden ornament, or lis- Bourgeoys Parish, Brookfield, Home School Association tening to gardening experts while enjoying lunch and refreshments. The event will raise funds for St. • Newspapers We are the proud printers of the Ann Academy, Christian Heritage Fairfield County Catholic for the past 20 years. School, and the Black Rock Food • Publications Pantry. For more info, visit www. vinesandvignettes.com. “A NIGHT OF WHITE” • Shoppers for Our Lady Star of the Sea School will be held Fri., June • Catalogs 6, from 7:30-11:30 pm at the Stamford Yacht Club, 97 Ocean • Magazines Drive West, Stamford. Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dancing and an auction. For more info, call the • Directories school: 203.348.1155. NOCTURNAL • Coupon Books ADORATION before the Blessed Sacrament is held the first Fri. • College Course of every month (June 6) at St. Bridget of Ireland Parish from 8 Catalogs pm-12 midnight, beginning with Benediction. The Sacrament of • Business & Financial June 2 - Nov. 2, 2014 Reconciliation will be available Periodicals after Benediction during the 8 pm hour. For more info, call the par- ish: 203.324.2910. • Free Standing ST. ANTHONY FEAST Inserts 205 Spring Hill Road, Trumbull CT 06611 will be held at St. Margaret 203.261.2548 1 State Street, New Haven • Free Admission & Parking Shrine, Bridgeport, the weekend • Advertising www.trumbullprinting.com 203-865-0400 • kofcmuseum.org of June 6-8. Fri., June 6, from Supplements 6-11 pm; Sat., June 7, from 2-11 Call us for a free quote. 35 May 2014 Bits & Pieces at St. Joseph School, Brookfield, 12 noon at Testo’s Ristorante, Deacon John & Peggy Scarfi: will be held at the school on Sat., Bridgeport. For more info, call 845.621.7000, [email protected] June 7, starting at 6 pm. For Pat: 203.261.8020. or www.endersisland.com. those who do not like seafood, GOSPEL OF LIFE SOCIETY 50TH REUNION for steak and chicken options are meets the second Sat. of the month Notre Dame Catholic High available. Cost: $49. For more (June 14) at St. Mary Parish, School Class of 1964 will hold information, call the school: Norwalk, at 10 am after the 9 am a Reunion Gala on Sat., June 203.775.2774. To purchase tick- Pro-Life Mass. For more info, con- 21, at Vazzy’s Four Season, ets, go to www.sjsbrookfield.org. tact Eileen Bianchini: 203.847.5727 Stratford. Fri. night and Sun. ANNUAL CELEBRATION or [email protected]. activities are also planned. For MEMORIAL DAY MASS and Rembrance Service OF MARRIAGE will be DOWN SYNDROME Prayer/ more info or to purchase tickets, will be sponsored by the Knights of Columbus #11077 sponsored by the Knights of Support Group meets the second email [email protected], or at Our Lady of Assumption Parish, Fairfield, on Sun., May 25, Columbus #107 at St. Margaret Sat. of the month (June 14) after go to www.notredame.org and at 12 noon. A military service to honor the war dead Shrine, Bridgeport, on Sun., the 9 am Pro-Life Mass at Saint click on ”Alumnae & Friends.” of our country will take place on the parish grounds immediately June 8, with a 10 am Mass Mary’s parish center in Norwalk. WOMEN SUFFERING from following the Mass. The ceremony will include veterans with celebrant Bishop Frank J. All are welcome. For more info, a past abortion are invited to a from all local veteran organizations along with police, scouts, honor Caggiano. Couples will be invited call Andee: 302.388.7996. Day of Prayer and Healing on guards, the First Selectman of Fairfield, police and fire chiefs, to renew their marriage vows HOLY SPIRIT Sat., June 28, from 9 am-5 pm Town Clerk, Probate Judge and state and local officials. during Mass. For more info or to FRATERNITY, Secular at the Seton Neumann Center Open to the public. For more info, call Fred Coseglia: 203.371.8181 place an ad or photo in the pro- Franciscan Order will meet at St. in Danbury. Begin your healing gram book, call 203.367.6754 or Emery Church on Sat., June 14, journey and experience God’s 203.345.3244. at 9:30 am. Fr. Norman Guilbert mercy. For more info and con- call the parish: 203.838.3788. For more info or to make a res- WINE AND FOOD will celebrate Mass in honor of fidential registration, contact SPIRITUAL PILGRIMAGE ervation, contact Fr. Marcel: TASTING FESTIVAL will take the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Maureen at Project Rachel: to the Holy Land and Italy will 203.434.7208 (cell) or ucsmar- place Sun., June 8, from 6-8 pm the Immaculate Heart of Mary. 203.416.1619 or email projectra- take place July 14-25, 2014, with [email protected]. at St. Gregory the Great Parish, Afterwards, a social and meeting [email protected]. Fr. Marcel Saint-Jean. Walk in PILGRIMAGE TO IRELAND Danbury. All wine and food sam- will be held in the parish hall. All RELIGIOUS GOODS the footsteps of Jesus and the by St. James Parish, Stratford, ples come from local restaurants are welcome. For more info, call STORE is open at St. Matthew Apostles in Israel, then travel will take place Sept. 10-19, 2014. or stores. Cost: $20 prepaid; $25 203.255.8801. Parish, Norwalk, offering a selec- to Rome and join pilgrims from Daily liturgies, prayer services as at the door. For more info or for FAMILY RETREATS will tion of Bibles, crucifixes, rosaries, all over the world to attend the well as visits to the sacred shrines tickets, call Diana: 203.792.6750. be held at St. Edmund’s Retreat First Communion sets, medals, Wed. Audience with the Holy and landmarks of this beautiful WOMEN’S GROUP at Center, Enders Island, Mystic, cards and much, much more. Father, Pope Francis. PRICE: country. For complete itinerary Christ the King Parish, Trumbull, CT. Dates: (Sun.-Fri.) weeks Store hours: Sat. after the 4 pm $3,980 includes round trip airfare and pricing call 203.375.5887, will hold their end of year of June 29-July 4 or August Mass and Sun. after the 9 am and from New York, taxes, hotels, ext. 102 or email bredgate. meeting on Mon., June 9, at 3-8. For more info, contact 10:30 am Masses. For more info, and breakfast and dinner daily. [email protected]. n

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BRIDGEPORT • STAMFORD • WATERBURY 10th annual diabetes symposium

wednesday, june 4th, 2014 • 8am to 12:45pm

Located at the Hawley Conference Center, Level 4, St. Vincent’s Medical Center 2800 Main Street, Bridgeport. Registration begins at 8am. Program begins at 8:20am. Free continental breakfast included. Free parking for attendees. The Symposium is a free program for patients and families. Program Director: Linda Werner, MD

topics include

• “ Why Do I Have To See An Ophthalmologist?” Reuven Rudich, MD, Ophthalmologist Vitreo-Retinal Specialist

• “ Diabetes: Understanding the Numbers” Nancy Dennert, MS, MSN, FNP-BC, CDE, BC/ADM

• “New Management Oportunities in Type 2 Diabetes” Sandi-Jo Galati, MD

• “ Healthier Eating One Step at a Time” – Food Labels Get a Facelift Karen Novak, RD, MA, CDE, Outpatient Nutrition Educator, St. Vincent’s Medical Center

To register please call St. Vincent’s Care Line at (877) 255-7847 For more information, please visit stvincents.org/DiabetesEvent