Inside this issue

7 Msgr. Weiss reflects on Sandy Hook

21-36 Christmas Around the Diocese Special Section 2 December 2017 Merry Christmas ‘A Christmas Carol’

Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, Scrooge Dear Brothers and Sisters, and the Ghost of Christmas Past came What a wonderful and blessed season! to life recently on the Trinity Catholic High The heart of Advent is a celebration of the three comings of Christ into our lives: the central spiritual focus is the need to School auditorium stage when the Crusader spiritually prepare for the feast of Christmas that commemorates Players starred in three performances of the birth of the Lord as Savior and Redeemer. Equally import- Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” ant is the need to ready our lives for the Second Coming of the Lord, when Christ will return in glory and power to judge all Last year, the Trinity theater program was nominated creation at the end of time. Finally, each day we celebrate the coming of Christ in His Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity, in the for a record 16 Halo awards for best high school theater, gift of the Eucharist. winning two of them for its production of “Fiddler on the The Advent season is our invitation to prepare for a new year Roof.” Congratulations to the cast and directors for a of grace. The question that you and I need to ask ourselves is moving and memorable production about the importance whether we are ready, here and now, to receive all these gifts? of a “change of heart” at Christmas time. Given the fact that Christmas will be celebrated on a “God bless us, every one!” Monday, this year’s celebration of Advent, already well under- way, is only 21 days long—the shortest length possible. For this (Photos by Amy Mortensen) reason, we must attend to its spiritual meaning and challenge in an intentional way in order to experience the benefits and bless- ings this great season can give us. As we move toward Christmas and its great message of hope for the world, there is still plenty of time to immerse ourselves in the journey of Advent and the Paschal mystery. I pray that my brothers and sisters throughout the diocese experience the true joy and peace of the season, and that the Light of Christmas shines upon you and your family.

Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano, Bishop of Bridgeport

ON THE COVER | CONTENTS Children from St. Andrew 6 ST. GEORGE CHURCH, BRIDGEPORT 22 DIOCESAN YOUTH CHOIR Academy in Bridgeport participate Restoring and Reviving Arise & Shrine Christmas Concert Inside this issue in last year’s Nativity play for parents and members of the 8 ST. AUGUSTINE CATHEDRAL PARISH 23 A CHRISTMAS REVELATION Msgr. Weiss reflects 7 on Sandy Hook community. Thousands throughout Feast of the Vietnamese Martyrs Finding Christ in ‘playing’ Santa the diocese are enjoying Christmas GIVING VOICE TO ADVENT Christmas Around 10 ST. LUKE PARISH, WESTPORT 26 21-36 the Diocese Special Section concerts and pageants held in Celebrates its 60th Anniversary Seminarians sing at Basilica schools and parishes to celebrate the birth of Our Lord. 19 CALENDAR EVENTS 28 SURPRISED BY AN ANGEL (Photo by Amy Mortensen) Bits & Pieces info Visitor brings the Christmas Spirit

3 December 2017 Latest News Foundations names three to Board of Trustees BRIDGEPORT—Foundations Bridgeport. She has also served in Education is pleased to as an elementary and secondary announce the appointment of school teacher and administrator three new members to its Board in seven dioceses and archdioceses of Trustees. Joining the board, throughout the country. effective December 11, are Foundations in Education George Coleman of Newtown; is Bishop Frank J. Caggiano’s Andrea Maldon of Fairfield; and vision to assist the Diocese of Sister Mary Grace Walsh, ASCJ, Bridgeport’s ongoing mission to of New Britain. advance Catholic education in “Our new trustees embody the Fairfield County. The primary spirit of community and bring purpose of this non-profit initia- talent and energy to the board. George Coleman Andrea Maldon Sister Mary Grace Walsh, ASCJ tive is to support Catholic edu- They are joining a dedicated and cation by providing tuition assis- mission-driven governing body, he was twice named acting com- became chief financial officer and ent, Sister Mary Grace is the pro- tance, grants that promote class- and we are very fortunate to have missioner of education. Coleman most recently served as manag- vost for education, evangelization room innovation and professional their expertise as we continue to is credited with helping to estab- ing director of internal investor and catechesis and the president leadership development and other strengthen and transform Catholic lish the state’s rationale for full- services. Maldon graduated of Saint Thomas Seminary in the education-based programs. Education,” said Holly Doherty- day kindergarten investment and magna cum laude from Fordham Archdiocese of Hartford. She is The three new members join Lemoine, executive director of with procuring the first state grant University in 1993 with a bache- an Apostle of the Sacred Heart of the existing Board of Trustees: Foundations in Education. to support full-day kindergarten. lor of science degree. Jesus and holds a B.A. in English Bishop Caggiano, David George Coleman currently serves Coleman also drafted the school Prior to Lone Pine, Maldon from Albertus Magnus College, Cappiello, Robert Dilenschneider, as an early childhood system devel- readiness legislation and fund- worked at Bowman Capital an M.A. in educational adminis- R. Bradford Evans, Michael opment specialist at Cooperative ing-level commitments, which Management as an accounting tration and supervision from Saint Hanlon, Lawrence Kudlow, Educational Services (CES) and now exceed $200,000,000. manager. Earlier, she served as Louis University and a Ph.D. Daniel McCarthy, Anne holds graduate degrees in early child- Andrea Maldon, CPA, cur- an auditor at Ernst & Young, in educational administration/ McCrory, Tom McInerney, Julia hood education and curriculum and rently serves on the Foundations LLP, for three years. church leadership from Fordham McNamara, Joseph Purcell, instruction from Teacher’s College at in Education Audit Committee Sister Mary Grace Walsh, University. Bernard Reidy, Gerard Robilotti, Columbia University. and recently retired after nineteen ASCJ, Ph.D., currently serves on Prior to serving the Archdiocese Robert Scinto, Michael Shea, and Prior to serving at CES, years at Lone Pine Capital, LLC, the Innovation and Leadership of Hartford, Sister Mary Grace Holly Doherty-Lemoine. Coleman spent his 24-year career a privately owned hedge fund Grants Committee at Foundations was superintendent and secretary (For more information about with the Connecticut State in Greenwich. Maldon joined in Education and is transitioning of Catholic Education and Faith Foundations in Education, visit Department of Education, where Lone Pine in 1998 as controller, to the Board of Trustees. At pres- Formation in the Diocese of www.foundationsineducation.org.) n St. Matthew Parish drives to Texas NORWALK—By the time $40,000 in donations, in addition reconstruct homes at Our Lady of Hurricane Harvey passed, Our to canned food, disinfectant and Guadalupe, which St. Matthew’s Lady of Guadalupe Parish out- cleaning supplies. has adopted as a sister parish. side of Houston had suffered Soon after, on September 4, he Before the end of the year, incalculable damage. The Brazos began the long journey, driving another team will go there, and River, which Spanish explorers the first of three 26-foot rental in the spring, members of the St. once called Rio de los Brazos de trucks to Rosenberg, Texas. He Matthew youth group and others Dios or “River of the Arms of had done the same thing five plan to help repaint the homes, God,” had risen 100 feet beyond years before, after Superstorm Msgr. Orlowski said. its banks. Sandy devastated the East Coast, Jim Weeks, vice president of In some places, up to 60 when he initiated an effort for Information Services for Yale inches of rain had fallen, and churches in Staten Island and New Haven Health, was among hundreds of homes in the rural New York. the nine volunteers who flew community were flooded. It was “We have to be ready to put to Rosenberg as part of the St. the second storm in a year to rav- the Gospel in action,” said Msgr. Matthew reconstruction team, age the area, which had not fully VOLUNTEERS from St. Matthew Parish put the Gospel into action. Orlowski, admitting that some- along with parochial vicar Father recovered from the first, and relief times you have to circumvent the Sunil Pereira. The group included agencies were overwhelmed by help. Now. He was prepared to ing churches in the Houston area bureaucracy, roll up your sleeves men and women from diverse the extent of the damage. So the drive 23 hours with supplies, food as soon as he saw the headlines, and get down to business. backgrounds—finance, health- parish prayed and looked for a and prayers. and someone told him Our Lady After he returned, he wrote in care, homemaking, construction sign of hope. The priest was Msgr. Walter of Guadalupe, a predominant- the bulletin, “Thank you for the and real estate—all drawn togeth- Even before the flood waters Orlowski, pastor of St. Matthew ly Hispanic parish with many privilege of bringing your dona- er by the common purpose of put- receded, Father Lee Flores got a Parish in Norwalk, a man who immigrant families, needed the tions to Texas. As God has loved ting Christ’s love into action. phone call. It wasn’t FEMA. It believes we’re called to put the most help, so he reached out us so much, we have that same “I’ve been going to this church wasn’t a government agency. It Gospel into action—and some- and organized a relief effort with love for each other.” a long time and Monsignor speaks was a fellow priest 1,700 miles times we’re called to act fast. churches and groups in Fairfield In October, nine parishio- from the heart,” Weeks said. away who said he wanted to Msgr. Orlowski began phon- County that collected more than ners made a second trip to help ➤ continued on page 19 4 December 2017 McGivney Center, Bridgeport Cone pitches ‘Family and Community’ STRATFORD—McGivney on to share his experiences in the Programs include homework Center launched its first Celebrity Yankee clubhouse, including sto- assistance, enrichment activities, Breakfast in a winning style with ries about his time with catcher Friday club, cooking classes, pitching great David Cone on the Joe Girardi, Mike Mussina, and computers, recreation, holiday mound and more than 350 enthu- Joe Torre. events, school vacation programs, siastic fans at Vazzano’s Four Before Cone took the podium, youth council tutorial services, Winds restaurant in Stratford. Bishop Frank J. Caggiano deliv- and summer camp. The recent event, sponsored ered the invocation and reflected The McGivney Center was by Aquarion Water Company, on the value of a neighborhood named for Father Michael raised over $60,000 to benefit the in the life of a child. “In a world McGivney, a priest from New diocesan-sponsored community where many are guarded or do Haven who worked tirelessly center that provides after-school not feel safe, we must create real for the poor and founded the and evening learning and recre- neighborhoods where young Knights of Columbus to serve ational programs to youth. people are respected, cared for, BASEBALL GREAT—David Cone, former N.Y. Mets and N.Y. Yankees as a mutual aid and fraternal The five-time All-Star and Cy and loved. That is precisely what pitcher, got the start for the first McGivney Center Celebrity Breakfast held insurance organization, par- recently at Vazzano’s Four Season’s Restaurant in Stratford. Young Award winner in 1994 the McGivney Center does each ticularly for immigrants and thanked all those present for and every day, and for that, I am their families. In March 2008, their commitment to creating a deeply grateful,” said the bishop. Bob Matthews, president Center was founded in 1992 Pope Benedict XVI declared community for the youth in the Youth speaker Briana Johnson of the board of the McGivney to create an educational “safe McGivney “Venerable” in recog- Bridgeport area. won the hearts of the gathering Center, handled the welcome, haven” by providing youth with nition of his “heroic virtue.” Cone also shared his appreci- with her thoughts on the role that while Terry O’Connor, execu- after-school and evening pro- (The McGivney Center is located ation for the McGivney Center, McGivney Center plays in her tive director, served as master grams, as well as summer camp. at 338 Stillman Street on the campus speaking on the importance of the life. She shared that in the future, of ceremonies. Board members Its mission is to provide stimu- of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in sense of community and family she wants to be a nurse so that Ken Martin and Sean Rabinowtiz lating and enriching programs Bridgeport. For more information, that the center creates for the she can give back to the center served as event co-chairs. that foster academic success and phone 203.333.2789 or visit www. students they serve. Cone went that has meant so much to her. The McGivney Community self-esteem. mcgivney.org.) n $100 $50

Provide meals for four families Wednesday Morning Breakfast for our retired priests after Mass

1. Visit www.BlessedGifts.org to select gifts. 2. Dedicate a gift to a friend or loved one. $50 3. The Diocese will send a card to your gift recipient or you $25 may print one on your computer or send an e-card. 4. The Diocese will direct your gift to the selected ministry. Questions: 203-416-1479 Reading or math textbooks for Provide warm breakfast for 25 people www.BlessedGifts.org Inner-city Catholic Schools through Morning Glory, Danbury

Simply complete the Blessed Gifts supports your faith in action envelope that is inserted in the Fairfield County Catholic through ministries across the Diocese of Bridgeport. with your gift selections. Diocese of Bridgeport, 238 Jewett Avenue, Bridgeport, Connecticut 06606 5 December 2017 NCYC 17 Recap Cone pitches ‘Family and Community’ ‘With Jesus, there is nothing you can’t face’

By JOHN T. GROSSO campaign, which was formally Mass, and listened to speakers launched by Bishop Frank J. each day with great attention. Just over 24,000 Catholic Caggiano later in the conference. Among those who helped lead SPREAD THE GOSPEL—a contingent of 30 diocesan youth and chaperones youth from throughout the The goal of the campaign is to prayer throughout the conference participated in the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis. The Face of Prayer 2.0 campaign was formally launched by Bishop Caggiano during country gathered in Indianapolis create a video catechism, using was Bishop Caggiano, taking the the conference. for a three day conference and questions asked by young people stage at Lucas Oil Stadium on celebration of faith. Participants and answers provided by theolo- Saturday morning. In his reflec- in the National Catholic Youth gians from around the country. tion, he discussed some of the Bishop Caggiano also gave a gathered for a final time to thank Conference (NCYC), held Youth from the Diocese of challenges that young people face breakout session to youth min- Evan Psencik, the coordinator of November 16-18, came from as Bridgeport gathered together each and how they can find their way isters on Friday afternoon, and youth and young adult ministry, far as Alaska and Hawaii, and as day for the morning and eve- through anything they might face joined the NCYC staff on the who led the pilgrimage. After a close as our very own Diocese of ning sessions, held in Lucas Oil with the help of Jesus and his official livestream of the event beautiful closing Mass celebrated Bridgeport, which sent a contin- Stadium. Youth from St. Philip Blessed Mother. that evening. by Archbishop Gomez, the youth gent of 30 youth and chaperones. Parish and St. Andrew Parish “With Jesus, there is nothing As the conference wound were sent forth into the world Starting their 14 hour bus participated in prayer, Catholic you can’t face” he said to a stand- down on Saturday afternoon, the to spread the Gospel by the way journey late on Wednesday night, concerts, Adoration and Holy ing ovation. Diocese of Bridgeport contingent they lived their lives. n the youth kept up a spirit of joy- ful anticipation, arriving at the Indianapolis Convention Center the following afternoon. Their Hitting the right notes for charity patience and perseverance were immediately rewarded, as they BRIDGEPORT—The 26th in Fairfield County. on their feet by the end of the Greenwich; and Mitch Barns, stepped off the bus to an atmo- Annual Fall Benefit for the Inner- The event, held on November evening, swinging to the sounds CEO of Nielsen and the event’s sphere of contagious excitement City Foundation for Charity & 16 at the Hyatt Regency in of the legendary New Orleans corporate chair. that permeated throughout the Education raised $682,000 to sup- Greenwich, had supporters of Preservation Hall Jazz Band Jennifer Barnum was this building. Youth from across the port struggling and needy families the Inner-City Foundation up Founded in 1992, the Inner- year’s winner of the founda- country were trading hats and City Foundation has provided tion’s Tim Russert Making A trinkets, coming up to complete more than $29 million to about Difference Award. Two bene- strangers to share in conversation, 200 local organizations. It awards ficiaries of programs supported and identify with others about grants to organizations providing by the Inner-City Foundation, their common Catholic faith. education, food, clothing, shelter Leidy Garcia of Stamford and Vendors and exhibitors from and counseling. Brianna Hopkins of Bridgeport across the country were present Master of Ceremonies, come- also spoke. in the massive exhibit hall, which dienne and master storyteller Garcia said the Exchange reflected a celebration of different Bonnie Levison kept the eve- Club Parenting Skills Center parts of the country. One of the ning moving with her humor in Stamford provided critical exhibitors, the ‘Face of Prayer,’ and quick wit, introducing the guidance to her when she found was manned by a dedicated team band as well as several speakers, herself pregnant at 14, with of volunteers from the Diocese including Msgr. Thomas Powers, nowhere to turn. Remarkably, of Bridgeport. Youth were con- vicar general of the Diocese of she was able to graduate on stantly surrounding the booth, Bridgeport; Dick Matteis and time with her high school filming questions about their faith Helen FitzPatrick of the Inner- class—“Amazing, right?!” and prayer life to be answered City Foundation, both from ➤ continued on page 17 in the new Face of Prayer 2.0 Peace on Earth Crèches of the World Nov. 18, 2017- Feb. 19, 2018 1 State Street, New Haven • 203-865-0400 • kofcmuseum.org • Free admission & parking 6 December 2017 St. George, Bridgeport Renovating for the future

By PAT HENNESSY “We have parishioners from of the bell tower and appearing nine different countries worship- by the stained glass windows of A church is a building ping here,” said Father Elio Sosa, the main church. IVE, pastor. A recent parish “There’s a simplicity to the where people gather census counted more than 900 bell tower at St. George that’s to worship God. people at weekend Masses. absolutely fabulous,” said Rick Founded by immigrant Rapice, project manager for A church is also the Lithuanians in 1907, the parish the diocesan Real Estate and people of God who is currently home to a mostly Construction Office. “It’s a per- Spanish-speaking community, fect square. It’s really beautiful; gather in that building. encompassing newly-arrived the proportions are terrific.” At St. George Church families and those from a second Because of the building’s age, or third generation in this coun- Father Sosa had already worked in Bridgeport, both the try. Families from Lithuanian with the Real Estate Office building and the people background still have a pres- to correct structural problems proudly recognize ence in the parish, along with around the property. “I think that parishioners who have a special experience gave Father Elio and over a hundred years place for Ireland in their hearts. his parish team the reassurance to of history. Both, too— “Everything we do here is bilin- see us as a resource and come to gual,” said Father Sosa. “We are us with this new problem,” said people and building one family, no matter what our Rapice. alike—are busy working background.” “Our parishioners want to see They were one family in a the church restored,” said Father toward another century leaky home, though. Water was Sosa. “So I followed the diocesan of worship. infiltrating through the aged roof policy. I spoke to the bishop, and he put me in touch with the cor- rect office. Richard was my right Cemetery Offices hand. He helped me a lot.” BRIDGEPORT-STRATFORD Renovation projects are St. Michael Cemetery daunting, and parishes lack the 2205 Stratford Avenue Stratford, CT 06615 ability to deal with them alone. NEW LIFE IN OLDER PARISH—Father Elio Sosa, pastor of St. George (203) 378-0404 That’s where the background, Parish, has breathed new life into the parish on the edge of downtown DANBURY knowledge and skill of the Real Bridgeport. With the help of the Diocesan Real Estate Office, he’s leading the St. Peter Cemetery effort to restore the steeple of the historic church founded by the Lithuanian 71 Lake Avenue Extension Estate and Construction Office community and now home to many Spanish-speaking families. Danbury, CT 06810 come into play. Over the past (203) 743-9626 year, Rapice and Andrew Schulz, DARIEN director of real estate, inspected with a copper skin. them.” St. John Cemetery 25 Camp Avenue the building and presented resto- The intricate European In November, the parish began Darien, CT 06820 ration drawings to Father Sosa stained-glass windows, almost a a novena in honor of Our Lady (203) 322-0455 and the parish council. During hundred years beautiful, are now of Juquila, a popular devotion To our families, GREENWICH the summer, Schulz and Anne safe from water damage. from the Mexican highlands. St. Mary - Putnam Cemetery 399 North Street McCrory, chief legal real estate Next up: re-pointing and It ended just before the Feast Monuments Greenwich, CT 06830 officer, researched restoration re-facing the brick façade. A third of the Immaculate Conception (203) 869-4828 companies. Diocesan policy item will be to replace the front on December 8. Another huge and Markers (203) 869-7026 NEWTOWN requires proposals from three dif- steps, which have shifted over Marian feast followed—Our Lady Resurrection Cemetery ferent sources before accepting a time. The pace of these items of Guadalupe. Are available c/o Gate of Heaven Cemetery contract. will depend on uncertain winter Hard on the heels of these 1056 Daniels Farm Road for purchase Trumbull, CT 06611 Due to the age of the church, weather. celebrations, St. George will (203) 268-5574 it was important to choose some- The pace of spiritual life at St. celebrate Kucios, the traditional through any of our NORWALK one who had experience restoring George continues with no pause; Lituanian Christmas Eve feast. St. John - St. Mary Cemetery Catholic Cemetery 223 Richards Avenue buildings from that era. They no winter winds can dim the glow “All one family,” Father Sosa Norwalk, CT 06850 chose Arthur Vincent Co. in of energetic faith. Worshippers repeated with pride. Offices. (203) 838-4271 Nyack, N.Y., who had worked gather early for daily Mass in the Meantime, Children’s Choir is STAMFORD on a Congregational Church in inviting chapel. First Friday Mass practicing for Christmas Mass. A Queen of Peace Cemetery Call for an appointment c/o St. John Cemetery Bridgeport. and Eucharistic Adoration bring Christmas play will delight chil- 25 Camp Avenue “The diocese knows him very standing room only. dren and parents alike. Christmas or visit us. Darien, CT 06820 (203) 322-0455 well,” said Father Sosa. “Andrew Nearly 300 children participate Mass will be stuffed to the gills. Vincent, the son, came with in religious education programs. Whatever the weather, Three ( TRUMBULL Gate of Heaven Cemetery Richard and Andrew to present On Tuesdays and Fridays, school Kings Day will see the parish hall We can give you a FREE 1056 Daniels Farm Road final plans and financial estimates children can come to the build- brimming with food, flooded with Trumbull, CT 06611 estimate on adding an inscription (203) 268-5574 to the parish.” ing to be part of the Oratorio of music and laughter, and happy to your existing family monument. WESTPORT In October, a scaffold and net- St. John Bosco, a mix of home- with toys for the little ones. Assumption, Greens Farms ting was erected around the ven- work, conversation, games and They will be happy and Assumption, Kings Highway warm—and dry. St. George, both c/o St. John Cemetery erable tower. Before the month life skills. “Our kids, we know Catholic Cemeteries Diocese of Bridgeport 223 Richards Avenue ended, they were replacing the them all,” said Father Sosa. “We the people and the building, are Administrative Office, Catholic Center Norwalk, CT 06850 crumbling, spalling masonry and know if they are happy or feeling looking forward to another centu- (203) 838-4271 238 Jewett Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06606 had started to replace the roof sad, and we have time to talk to ry of worship. n 7 December 2017 5th Anniversary Sandy Hook remembered NEWTOWN—Five years myself together.” His doctor ing to remind themselves of the after the tragedy of Sandy Hook wanted to prescribe medication, Light conquering darkness. There Elementary School, a priest still but he refused because he knew were Christmas trees with hun- looks for healing and for hope, he had to be alert and a source of dreds of lights and candles.” but it has been a difficult, often strength. His staff and two parochial anguished path. One parishioner described him vicars, Father Ignacio Ortigas and Msgr. Robert Weiss, pastor of as a light in the darkness. Father Luke Suarez, were “out- ST. ROSE OF LIMA PASTOR MSGR. ROBERT WEISS buried eight chil- St. Rose of Lima Parish, vividly “The Lord and the people standing and very protective.” dren from the parish in late December, 2012, after the Sandy Hook School remembers the days, weeks and carried me through,” he said. “I Wherever he went, three parish- shootings. His deeply pastoral and comforting presence started the healing months after a young man took had eight funerals in five days, in ioners accompanied him. “We process for many people and also became a symbol of the power of faith across the lives of 20 children and six addition to all the wakes.” were able to bring consolation the United States. In reflecting on the difficulty of dealing with the tragedy and adults shortly before Christmas. The children from St. Rose and hope to a lot of people.” ongoing trauma, Msgr. Weiss says, “I put it in God’s hands and relied on His Eight children and one adult of Lima Parish who died at “The press was amazed by grace.” (Photo by Michelle Babyak) were from his parish. They were Sandy Hook School were: the role of the Church in the children he had baptized, and Daniel Barden, 7; Olivia Engel, lives of the community,” he of the Catholic center, along and that of countless people who some were preparing for First 6; Josephine Gay, 7; Catherine recalled. “We showed the world with efforts by the Knights of came to him with their grief. Holy Communion. Suddenly, Hubbard, 6; James Mattioli, 6; the importance of faith. The Columbus, the youth groups and His assistant priests eventually it was his responsibility to bury Grace McDonnell, 7; Caroline houses of worship became the parish groups,” Msgr. Weiss said. received transfers, which com- them. Previdi, 6; and Jessica Rekos, 6. centers where people gathered. He broke up as he recalled their pounded his pain. “There’s still a great deal of During that week, priests They were open 24-7. We also commitment and expressions of “A lot of people asked if I was pain, there’s still a great deal of from the diocese rallied to Msgr. showed them the value of family. love for one another. considering a transfer, but when anger,” he said. “The path to Weiss’s side, with as many as It reminded us of what is truly Within days, the community I saw what so many people were healing and forgiveness has not ten priests and deacons on the important in life.” began to receive hundreds of going through, it confirmed the been an easy one. On the fifth altar. He remembers assisting the Day and night, people kept a thousands of letters, contribu- need to stay.” anniversary, some people still grieving families into the church, constant vigil at St. Rose. They tions and packages containing He began suffering from symp- don’t want to talk about it.” embracing the parents at the Kiss prayed and lit candles at shrines Christmas cookies, hams, prayer toms of post-traumatic stress dis- The morning of December of Peace, sprinkling holy water on the grounds, adorning them cards, hand-crafted gifts and order and spent several weeks at 14, he was among the first clergy on the coffins and commending with flowers, photos, Santas and books. Msgr. Weiss served on a a Catholic facility for counseling to arrive at the school with the the children to their final rest. In stuffed animals. They came to committee that managed their and rehabilitation. Newtown police. Later that day, he his homilies, he talked about light pray, to publicly mourn and to distribution. “I still break down a lot,” he would accompany them to inform and darkness. let the families who lost a child “I had people coming in on says. “My vision and hearing parents their children had died. “This is darkness, and dark- know their grief was shared. two-hour shifts because emo- were affected. These are the after- He remembers keeping vigil at ness is not going to conquer the “The way the parish and the tionally that was as long as they effects. I have difficulty sleeping, the volunteer fire station as par- Light,” he said. “It was the sea- community rallied was absolutely could handle it,” he said. and my whole lifestyle radically ents paced nervously throughout son of Advent and Hanukkah, phenomenal, including support He often felt alone as he con- changed. I have terrible anxiety the afternoon and then collapsed and everywhere people were try- from Catholic Charities and staff fronted his emotional turmoil ➤ continued on page 16 in grief when Governor Malloy announced there were no more survivors. “The parents knew in their hearts the children were gone,” CATHOLIC PROFESSIONAL NETWORK Msgr. Weiss said. “As broken as they were, the love in the room was phenomenal even after such a great loss.” Law Office of James M. Hughes That evening, more than 750 Elder Law/TITLE 19/MEDICAID-Planning grief-stricken mourners crowded RESIDENTIAL EMERGENCY DRAIN CLEANING into St. Rose for a Vigil Mass. Veteran’s Benefits - “Aid & Attendance” Outside 1,000 more stood praying Estates/Probate/Real Estate MUNICIPAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL in the cold. 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE • LICENSED & INSURED After midnight, Msgr. 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Parish, Father Nguyen presented of the Holy Vietnamese Martyrs The Cathedral Mass, cel- gifts to his pastor, Father Thomas held at St. Augustine Cathedral ebrated in both English and Thorne, for his generosity and on November 19. The martyrs Vietnamese, was enthusiastically support of allowing Father are the patrons of the Vietnamese embraced by the parishioners. Nguyen to also administer to the Catholic community in the Bishop Caggiano, as always, cap- Vietnamese Community. He also Diocese of Bridgeport, which tured the congregation’s focus. gave Bishop Caggiano a beautiful makes the cathedral its home parish. There was a great excitement throughout the event. Bishop Frank J. Caggiano was the prin- cipal celebrant and homilist. About 15 priests concelebrat- ed, including Father Thomas Thorne, pastor of the Church CENTURIES OF FAITH—The heroic dedication of the Vietnamese Martyrs of the Assumption in Westport, was honored during a Mass held at St. Augustine Cathedral, home to the Vietnamese Catholic community in this diocese. (Photos by Michelle Babyak) and Msgr. Robert Weiss, pastor of St. Rose of Lima Parish in Newtown. colorful Vietnamese traditional villages were destroyed during The cathedral was packed, dress honoring the martyrs, fol- several persecutions. The Vatican with standing room only. lowed by veneration of the first estimates that possibly as many Vietnamese families, many of class relics of the martyrs. as 3,000 Vietnamese have died whom traveled a great distance, To fill in the historical for their faith in Jesus. For that were joined by American guests background, it’s important to reason, Vietnamese Catholics During his homily, he pointed picture of the Sacred Hearts of and many religious Brothers and recognize that Christianity in who died for their faith from out two lessons they could draw Jesus and Mary with a first class Sisters. Honor guards from the Vietnam dates back a solid 500 1533 to the present day were from the Vietnamese Martyrs. relic of the Vietnamese Martyrs. Knights of Columbus lent added years. The Catholic population canonized on June 19, 1988, by The first, simply and clearly, The congregation was then dignity to the occasion. Lively flourished, particularly after the St. John Paul II under the title was “Do not be afraid, and go invited over to the Kolbe Gym and beautiful songs singing by arrival of the Jesuits in the early “Vietnamese Martyrs.” out into the world making a dif- for a reception to celebrate the the Vietnamese choir and colorful 1600s. Persecution, always a The faith of Vietnamese ference.” He ended his homily feast day. There was plenty of uniforms of the boys and girls threat, grew more ominous as Catholics never faltered. by emphasizing that the martyrs food and great music performed and different ministries added to regimes welcomed or rejected the Vietnam has the fifth largest did not die alone, but with their by the young people in the com- the overall effect. Christians in their midst. Catholic population in Asia, with brothers and sisters in the Lord. munity. Bishop Caggiano, along The day started with the skit While slightly more than a nearly six million Catholics in After Mass, Father Augustine with most of the people, stayed of the Vietnamese Martyrs, then hundred martyrs are known by Vietnam today, representing 6.87 Nguyen thanked all the peo- until the very end enjoying the a lively dance by young ladies in name, entire families and whole percent of the total population. ple present on behalf of the wonderful time together. n Service Corps helps Al’s Angels pack meals BRIDGEPORT—On children with cancer, rare blood This event was the perfect November 11, hundreds of vol- diseases and financial hardship. opportunity for the Catholic unteers gathered at the Gault Among the volunteers gath- Service Corps to come together. Stone Warehouse on Seaview ered to assemble the bins, com- Young people from various par- Avenue in Bridgeport to pack prised of pantry staples as well as ishes and schools took part in the 1,600 Al’s Angels Thanksgiving all the fixings for a Thanksgiving day, along with Confirmation meal, were members of the candidates from St. Pius X Diocese of Bridgeport’s Catholic Parish in Fairfield, students from Service Corps. The Catholic Fairfield Prep, Notre Dame Service Corps calls on young High School, St. Joseph High people to be the face of Christ in School and area youth groups, service to others and unites them including ones from St. Mark in service opportunities while Parish in Stratford, Assumption connecting these to their Catholic in Westport and St. Francis in faith. Al’s Angels has partnered Weston. with the Catholic Service Corps The youth of the Catholic meal bins for families in need. for the past two years for the Service Corps were also joined This is an annual event for Al’s Thanksgiving and Christmas bin by four religious Sisters from the unteers eagerly looked forward connect to service opportunities Angels, a charitable organiza- packing events, as well as for the Council of Religious, led by Sister to the next Al’s Angels event, the can learn more by visiting www. tion founded by Catholic entre- toy drive, in which over 12,000 Nancy Stirillacci, ASCJ. Christmas meal bin packing on catholicservicecorps.org or contacting peneur Al DiGuido in 2004 as new toys will be collected for That experience behind them, December 9. CSC coordinator Jessica Nayden: an outreach to thousands of children in area hospitals. the Catholic Service Corps vol- (Youth and families wishing to [email protected].) n 9 December 2017 Father Rolando Torres The priest’s goal is to serve and not to be served BRIDGEPORT—When he In addition, a special donation “Alpha and Omega” at www. was 15, Father Rolando Torres is being made to Our Lady of the lavozdemariaradio.com. met a young woman who was in Angels parish in Utuado, whose For Father Torres, serving the same Catholic youth move- pastor, Father Miguel Mercado, at St. Mary’s is somewhat of ment in Puerto Rico. Years later, was the rector of the minor semi- a homecoming. His family in desperation, she emailed the nary that Father Torres attended. attended Mass in the old church, NO COINCIDENCES—Father Rolando Torres is now pastor of St. Mary now-pastor of St. Mary Parish in “He was the priest who told which was demolished in the Parish in Bridgeport, where he was baptized as an infant. Because he grew up Bridgeport and asked for help. me that we live to serve,” he early 1980s. It was there that in Puerto Rico, he was ideally placed to offer assistance to families from that She and her husband and two recalled. “He once said, ‘If you Father Torres was baptized in island after the destruction of Hurricane Maria. sons were homeless. want to be a good priest, you 1978 by Msgr. Peter Cullen, who They lost everything in Hurricane start by cleaning.’ I have been years later vested him for his Maria, one of the most devas- blessed to know very holy and ordination. tating storms ever to hit Puerto humble priests.” The youngest of nine children, Rico. Could Father help them? Working with Rosa Correa, he and his family left the East He wasted no time, and short- coordinator of the Puerto Rico Side and returned to Puerto Rico ly afterward arranged for the Relief Center in Bridgeport, when he was barely a year old. family’s flight from San Juan to Father Torres has assisted other As a teenager, he felt called to the America, families priesthood and entered a minor where an who came seminary. He later received his apartment “Father Torres recently here after bachelor’s degree in philosophy was waiting the hurri- from the Pontifical Catholic for them in had an Adoration Chapel cane. University of Puerto Rico and Bridgeport Often studied theology in San Juan. with two built, where daily Mass lacking a In 2002, he returned to months paid support Bridgeport. By then, however, rent. It was is celebrated, along with system in he had left the seminary and was only one of America, working odd jobs for a cleaning many efforts Eucharistic Adoration.” they were service and dentist’s office. Even on the part welcomed though he didn’t know what of the priest and the predomi- by St. Mary’s and invited to the future had in store, God nantly Puerto Rican parish to attend the parish’s Thanksgiving did. One day after Mass at St. help people from their native dinner and the observance of the James Parish in Stratford, Father island, whose lives have been feast of Our Lady of Providence, Thomas Lynch, St. James’ pas- destroyed by the storm that hit on patroness of Puerto Rico, for tor, asked to pray over him and September 20. whom Father Torres and the said, “God has a plan for you. He said his goal as a priest is parish have a special devotion. Don’t let the devil hold up that to serve and not to be served. His Father Torres speaks often about plan. May the Lord make you spiritual mentor, one of the holi- Providence in his own life and come back to him.” est priests he ever met, told him the life of the Church. That prayer was quickly that should be his purpose. They “Rosa Correa sent people answered. A few days later, he are Christ’s own words. our way,” he said. “It was in met with Msgr. Chris Walsh, Since he was named pastor in the Providence of God that we then director of priestly voca- 2015, Father Torres said his goals already had everything in place to tions. “We talked for two hours,” have been twofold: to advance help them.” Father Torres recalled, “and he the spiritual lives of his parishio- As part of their efforts, parish- convinced me to come back. I This Scripture Puzzle is sponsored by: ners and to implement social pro- ioners serve meals every second told him my English was bad, grams for the parish and commu- Friday at the Thomas Merton and he said, “God will take care nity, most recently through char- Center, and prepare breakfast in of you.” itable activities and relief efforts the church hall after Mass. St. He resumed his studies at St. for victims of the hurricane. Mary’s has close to 1,000 fami- Joseph’s Seminary and College in Father Torres had wanted to lies who attend three Masses in Dunwoodie, N.Y., and graduat- return to Puerto Rico because he Spanish and one in English. ed in 2006. He was ordained on has family members and friends Father Torres recently had an May 19, 2007, and assigned to St. there, but his plans were thwart- Adoration Chapel built, where Mary Parish in Greenwich, where ed when a flight he booked was daily Mass is celebrated, along he served for several years, fol- cancelled. Since then, the parish with Eucharistic Adoration, lowed by St. Mary’s in Stamford has sent regular shipments of Monday to Friday from 8 am to and briefly at St. Joseph’s in food and provisions there, with 10 pm. Shelton. the shipping being paid for by an In addition, more than 100 On May 19, 2015, he was anonymous Greenwich donor. people gather in the church hall appointed pastor of St. Mary’s in The parish also raised $4,000 for weekly classes in Bible study Bridgeport. It was the anniversary through a diocesan collection that and Church history, which he of his ordination. For Our Lady was given to Catholic Charities teaches. He also has an Internet of Providence, there are no coin- for its relief effort. radio program twice a week titled cidences. n 10 December 2017

EDITORIAL LETTER TO THE EDITOR A Mother’s Faith To Msgr.Orlowski and the parish community of St. Matthew In union with Christ the King as 300 members of this parish never forget your sacrifice. In December 2012, Fairfield County Catholic received this extraordinary letter and the celebration of Advent, I community were not. Msgr. Walter, you are and from Jenny Hubbard, mother of six-year old Catherine Hubbard, who lost her life in would like to express how thank- Your donations and money inspiration to me as a priest. You the shootings at Sandy Hook School on December 14 of that year. The depth of her ful I am to the Lord for the unity helped us to reach out to all those are an example of the good pastor faith and strength of her love were a gift to all those struggling with the shootings. and love that is shared among us in need regardless of faith, color, who doesn’t sit around but is very The Hubbards have since honored Catherine’s life through the creation of the in Christ the King. rich, poor, male or female—and proactive in the proclamation of Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary in Newtown (cvhfoundation.org). I want to express my sincere most importantly to children. the Word. Other families have gone on work for gun violence prevention and establish initia- gratitude and thankfulness to With your help, we became a dis- To all the families of St. tives that celebrate the lives of their children by helping others. Msgr. Walter and the community tribution center for the county. Matthew, thank you for your As we prepare for Christmas and the celebration of a child whose life changed the entire world, we solemnly remember the children of Newtown and their families of St. Matthew for the help given I don’t know how to thank you faith and selfless generosity. who continue to struggle with the loss. (See interview with Msgr. Robert Weiss, to the flood victims of our parish, and how humbled I am by the bond It shows the world that Jesus, pastor of St. Rose of Lima on page 7). On the 5th anniversary of this tragedy Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, we share as Catholics, but most of our King, reigns in your heart, that shook the diocese and the entire nation, we are honored to re-print Jennifer Rosenberg, Texas, and the sur- all the bond we share as humans. actions and in the very communi- Hubbard’s letter: rounding communities. I was Jesus Christ, our King, built his ty where your live and pray. May overwhelmed by your selflessness Church without borders or barriers our Lady of Guadalupe, who is When I close my eyes I see Catherine cradled in the palm of His hand. and acts of kindness and love. that would constrain his disciples the first and perfect evangelizer of I see her softly giggling. She is opening her arms to all the animals. She is The wonderful families of St. from going out into the world and all the Americas, have you in the sending us comfort in ways that only God’s angels could know how. She Matthew and the business com- lifting up their neighbor in time of folds of her garment and in the is with God, she is at peace. munity of Norwalk were a source need, suffering and death. crossing of her arms. When I could not find her, I felt a calm fill my heart and I knew in that of hope and strength to our com- To the men and women who May Christ King always keep moment she was with God. I knew that she was safe, safer than I could munity. The hope you brought to came to help rebuild homes, I send us united in the bonds of love ever make her. I miss her. There will be a hole in my heart that widens our community is the hope that is you my heartfelt thanks. You are and faith we share. May this holy each time I remember something so simple that was so Catherine. Each embodied the Advent season. an example of what Pope Francis season of hope be our strength to time I feel that my tears will not stop, I am pulled back to a place of peace Our parish community was hit says, “That the Church should move forward to a new Advent. n and find comfort that Catherine was called to a job much bigger than I can with a second flood within a year come out of its buildings and go even fathom. I know that God has a specific purpose for us and while I and a half. Hurricane Harvey out into the world and become I am your humble servant, may not understand right now how I will muster the strength to fulfill His caused much more extensive dirty and poor and messy.” This is Father Lee A. Flores purpose, I must remain centered on His face. He will provide what I need damage than we anticipated. The what makes the Church the living Our Lady of Guadalupe Church to move forward. He will provide the soft nudges to help me feel confident church was spared but as many body of Christ. The families will Rosenberg, Texas that I am doing what He intended. We are all put where we are for a very specific reason. My daughter, along with the victims of Sandy Hook School, brought a world to their knees in prayer. Twenty babies and six adults were able to do what some CLERGYAPPOINTMENTS thought never possible. They have set the stage for us and we have a The Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano, Bishop of Bridgeport, responsibility to continue what they started. We have a responsibility to continue to serve our children and help them be rooted in their faith. We has made the following clergy appointments in the Diocese of Bridgeport: are bound to this place and must bring our children’s understanding of faith to a new level. Dean Parochial Administrator Vicar of Saint Edward the So many people are talking about getting back to normal. I am not sure FATHER FRANCISCO FATHER MICHAEL A. Confessor Parish, New Fairfield. that is really what we want. Are we willing to accept that normal includes GOMEZ-FRANCO, from interim BOCCACCIO, to temporary Effective date was November 20. allowing our children to not feel safe in their schools? Are we willing to Dean of the “Queen of Peace” Parochial Administrator of Holy Episcopal Chaplain say that normal is a place where first graders, teachers and administrators Deanery (A), to Dean of the Name of Jesus Parish, Stratford. being brutally killed is acceptable? I pray that we do not go back to nor- FATHER JOSEPH GILL, to “Queen of Peace” Deanery (A). Effective date was November 27. mal. I pray that we find a new normal that is restored in faith. I pray that Father Boccaccio will remain Director Episcopal Chaplain to The Catholic Effective date was November 13. we continue to draw on God’s love and peace. I pray that the world is of the Pontifical Mission Societies Academy of Stamford. Effective comforted knowing that they are wrapped in God’s cloak. Father Gomez-Franco will remain for the Diocese of Bridgeport. date is January 1, 2018. Father Gill This week our son asked, “How God would do this?” We told him, Pastor of Saint Charles Borromeo Parochial Vicar will remain Episcopal Chaplain to God didn’t do this. We are human, we have free will, there are people Parish, Episcopal Master of Trinity Catholic High School. that do not listen to God’s voice and decide to take their own path. When Ceremonies, and representative on FATHER HARRY PRIETO, from we stop listening to our hearts, we stop listening to God’s voice. We stop the Presbyteral Council for priests Parochial Vicar of Saint Theresa Father Joseph A. Marcello acknowledging that we are in this place for a very specific reason. As ordained 0-14 years. Parish, Trumbull, to Parochial Vicar for Clergy, December, 2017 you celebrate the New Year and settle back into the lives you led prior to December 14th, I pray that you know that you are exactly where you need to be and that you hear God’s gentle voice helping you find the words that Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano you need to say. I pray that we find comfort and solace knowing that God Advertise Publisher To place an ad, contact loves each one of us and will wrap each one of us in His arms when the Ralph Lazzaro: 203.667.1622 days become too much. I pray that the world returns to their faith. Brian D. Wallace Executive Editor [email protected] Circulation Office Pat Hennessy Every registered Catholic household of Communications Managing Editor [email protected] in Fairfield County is entitled Diocese of Bridgeport to a subscription. To cancel, change or add A Journey of Hope Renée Stamatis an address, please email: [email protected] 238 Jewett Avenue Art Director [email protected] Annual Subscription Price Bridgeport, Connecticut 06606-2892 Ralph Lazzaro Pope Francis calls Advent a journey toward the horizon of hope. $20 (within diocese) telephone | 203.416.1461 Advertising Manager [email protected] There is something about Christmas that inspires hope in everyone. fax | 203.374.2044 $50 (outside diocese) At this time of the year, people hope for peace in their families. They email | [email protected] Brian A. Wallace Graphic Designer [email protected] Postmaster hope for peace in our harshly divided country. They hope for peace in Web | www.bridgeportdiocese.com send address changes to: our ever more frightening world. As Pope Francis emphasized, “The Facebook | BridgeportDiocese John Grosso Fairfield County Catholic journey is never finished.” Twitter | @diobpt Social Media Leader [email protected] 238 Jewett Avenue USPS no.: 12-117. Periodical Bridgeport, Connecticut 06606-2892 One of the best ways to carry forward the journey started by the postage paid at Bridgeport, CT 06601, Ronnie Lazzaro infant in Bethlehem is captured by the words of a popular hymn, and additional mailing offices. Copy Editor (Consultant) © Copyright 2016, Diocese of Bridgeport “Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” n 11 December 2017 Editorial What was I thinking?

“Joy to the World” piped though you nicely all year long, so why Why should Christmas be any A Woman’s View a retail outlet? Or if school choirs celebrate? different? didn’t visit the mall wishing us a Could we really refrain from However, it’s not about over- By Debra Tomaselli Merry Christmas? that? I couldn’t. spending. A note and a candy bar Suppose we weren’t prompted I want to celebrate you. I like can be the sweetest gift. In God’s to consider sharing our resources, to recognize birthdays… yours, economy, a smile, a hug, a visit like our food, our time and our mine… and Jesus’. or a silent prayer are priceless gifts, in some way, with family, We can and should give of presents. Debra Tomaselli writes from friends and neighbors. What ourselves throughout the year. So let the retail ratings soar. Altamonte Springs, Florida. She can would that look like? We can still be generous, cre- But don’t forget why. be reached at [email protected]. For a season, the spirit of ate happy surprises and make Don’t forget the love of God Christmas surrounds us. It’s a someone smile… any day of the poured out on us this Christmas spirit of love. year… every Day. Ponder ’m starting my mercialized. Did people lose the Some may measure the season day of the the birth Christmas shopping real meaning of the season? Was by retailers’ revenues, but it’s far year! “In God’s economy, of the One this weekend,” I said it all about retail sales? Why cre- more than that. This, pre- sent to open “Ito a coworker recently. ate all this stress? It’s about the incalculable cisely, is what a smile, a hug, a visit the doors of “So early?” she asked. “I’d rather see people give gifts amount of love that motivates Christmas is all heaven to I nodded. “Last year the hol- throughout the year, instead of those transactions. Without the about. or a silent prayer are you for eter- idays were so stressful that I’ve just one day,” she said. I nodded love, there would be no inflated And the nity. decided to get the shopping done in absolute agreement. sales. commercial- priceless presents.” That’s before Thanksgiving. That way That weekend, however, as Should we eliminate the ism? the gift we there’s time for church presenta- I took my Christmas list to the commercialism prompted by Many of us celebrate on tions and holiday gatherings.” stores, I changed my mind. Christmas Day? Balance what don’t sew, bake, hammer or build Christmas Day. And this gift is “I don’t know why we do this I realized a world without we do throughout the year and anything useful. Generations ago, never-ending. The love of God to ourselves,” my associate said, Christmas gift-giving would be eradicate the need to mark the you had to. Thankfully, times pursues you today and all the shaking her head. very sad and cold, indeed. occasion? have changed. days of your life. Before long, we found our- Suppose there were no That would be like having Now we shop in malls. You can be sure of that. selves bemoaning the fact that bell-ringers for the Salvation someone’s birthday pass without There’s Amazon. We order You can celebrate that. Christmas had become too com- Army? Suppose you never heard any special recognition. We treat online. Today and every day. n Christmas is not (just) a story

may come when he strays from It’s a believable scenario, a reason, satisfying our selfish the path his mother and I set him modern couple in a tough spot. appetites, playing with our dopey A Dad’s View on. I can’t imagine loving Our It’s after dark. A sign adver- toys, and pursuing our mindless Billy any less when he does. tising NO VACANCY looms obsessions. I know I’m not the By Matthew Hennessey It’s impossible for me to atop a motel in the background. first to wonder in a moment of think of the Christmas story Anxiety. But at their feet, almost weakness how it’s possible that without thinking of how happy hidden amidst the litter and we can all be special in God’s the appearance of that little decay, a tiny green flower is eyes. Matthew Hennessey and his baby Jesus must have made his breaking through a crack in the There are so many of us. family are parishioners of St. John parents. It wasn’t your typical pavement—a shoot sprouting There have been so many of us. the Evangelist Parish in Stamford. delivery-room scene. The Blessed from the stump of Jesse. There will be many more of us Virgin and Saint Joseph were Just in case you don’t get after you and I are gone. He can’t improvising. Their circumstances it, the name on his work shirt possibly know us all. He can’t here’s nothing like a The feeling I get gazing at him were dire; the future looked grim. is José. Her sweatshirt reads know me, you, and every down- little baby to make a is love, I guess, but it deserves a Then the baby came and all Nazareth High School. It’s and-out José and Maria. household happy. The different name. It’s bigger than was quiet. All was bright. Mary and Joseph, and the little When I’m in these moods, it’s THennesseys have had a love, really. Deeper than love. A baby has a way of making baby unborn Jesus—a 25-cent tempting to think that Christmas run of good luck in that depart- More. a household happy. The miracle Christmas Eve in Anytown, is just a convenient story. ment—little babies landing on Maybe the wind knows its in the manger made the world U.S.A. The spirit of the Lord Then I see those fat cheeks our doorstep at a pretty regular name. happy, but first it made the Holy rests upon them. and those sky-blue eyes. I hear clip the last few years. The latest Even when Our Billy’s rooting Family happy. It even made them One night my train was the moaning and groaning of our is Our Billy, a mischievous and around under the sink, or sneak- a family. delayed. I ended up spending little stranded seal curled up in scampering adventure pirate if ing up the stairs, or disabling A friend posted a drawing on more time in the basement of bed between me and my wife. ever one existed. my phone with his fat fingers, or Facebook recently of a young Grand Central Terminal than I’d Then I get the picture. Billy is teething now. He whimpering like a stranded seal couple outside a 24-hour conve- normally prefer. Watching the I know Our Billy. I know all moans and groans. Keeps us up at midnight, I can’t find it in me nience store in an urban neigh- commuters coming and going, of him, just as God knows all of all hours. Starts out in his crib, to get angry. My voice may deep- borhood. She’s in an advanced to-ing and fro-ing, it was hard to me. Just as he knows everyone ends up in our bed. It’s exhaust- en and sharpen when I do my state of pregnancy, sitting on an shake the impression that we’re who ever lived and ever will. Just ing. But, man, does he know how Big Daddy Discipline routine. out-of-order mechanical pony, all just meat—no different than as he knows the name that’s writ- to put a smile on my face. He’s But it’s all for show. 25 cents per ride. He’s on a pay- hordes of swarming insects. ten on the wind. mostly all cheeks. The sight of Our Billy is the world. He can phone, 25 cents per call, with a Thousands of millions rushing Merry Christmas from my him slaughters me. do no wrong. Not now. The day phonebook open on his knee. hither and thither for no good family to yours. n 12 December 2017 Women Religious Cause for jubilation WEST HARTFORD—There them was Sister Marion Paul home to the Mercy Learning was ample cause for jubilation Lillis, marking 75 years of pro- Center) and St. Charles Borromeo and joy this fall as Sisters of fessed life. During her years of School, also in Bridgeport. Mercy of the Americas celebrated service she had taught at Sacred Among the group were significant anniversaries. Among Heart School in Bridgeport (now nine women who entered from

SISTER MARION PAUL LILLIS CELEBRATED 75 years of professed life.

throughout the diocese: Sacred The Sisters of Mercy were the Heart Parish and St. Charles first women religious to serve Borromeo Parish, both in in Fairfield County, arriving to Bridgeport; St. Joseph Parish in establish a school at St. John the South Norwalk; St. Peter Parish Evangelist Parish in Stamford in in Danbury; St. Maurice Parish 1887, more than half a century in Stamford; and St. Thomas before the Diocese of Bridgeport Aquinas Parish in Fairfield. was formed. In total, the jubiliarian Sisters SISTERS OF MERCY HAVE have given over 1300 years of GIVEN over 1300 years of personal personal commitment to the commitment to the Church. Church! n

Introducing Our NEW Intensive Stroke Rehabilitation Program DIRECTED BY St. Luke celebrates 60 years Neurologist: Daryl Story, Physiatrist: Claudio Petrillo WESTPORT—The Church and Pulmonologist: Donald McNichol of St. Luke in Westport cel- ebrated its 60th anniversary with three days of events this fall. Msgr. Andrew Varga, pastor, Father Thomas Lakra, and Sister Maureen Fleming, SSND, led the festivities. Starting off Friday evening, parishioners had a chance to Rock Back to the Sixties. They danced to the music of DJ Remember Then, twirled with hula hoops and twisted to Chubby Checkers. A photo booth was set up, and guests St. Luke’s feasted on a spread of typical children had ‘60s nibbles. their own Saturday evening featured party on a 60th Anniversary Mass Sunday with attended by priests who had an ice cream served at St. Luke Parish in and cake the past. Father Sam V. Scott, social after now pastor of St. Joseph religious Parish in Danbury, gave the formation homily. Assisting priests were classes. Msgr. Walter Orlowski, pas- Prizes were tor of St. Matthew Parish in also award- Norwalk; Father Ray Petrucci, ed to the winners of a coloring a native son of St. Luke; and the church. One side shines contest, which featured a tribute into the gathering space; the Father Thomas Thorne, dean to St. Luke. of the Deanery F (Fairfield other side shows the window The festivities included a above the balcony that is and Westport) and pastor of special cake served at the Friday Assumption Parish. A cham- visible on the way out of the night event. It depicts the stained church. The baker did a terrific pagne reception followed the glass window in the vestibule of Mass. job of depiction. n 13 December 2017 Sports St. Joseph girls win soccer, volleyball state titles

By DON HARRISON Coaches Association (CHSCA) the match’s lone goal five min- According to Nogueira, Mazo Yankee United soccer club since All-State team. “Bridget has utes into the second half—appro- is the “most skillful and techni- she was 10 years old,” Nogueira Three straight state champi- already committed to Connecticut priately enough, on a pass from cally sound player we’ve had at said. “She’s very athletic, with onships. Four state titles in the College,” Babineau said. All-American midfielder Jessica St. Joe’s,” which speaks volumes. very good soccer skills combining past five seasons. Those are just St. Joseph swept its FCIAC Mazo. The latter, a junior, was “We’ve had a lot of great play- passing, shooting and dribbling.” some of the noteworthy accom- volleyball opponents (16-0) voted MVP of the title game. ers in the program, but Mazo is The Cadets’ most renowned

ST. JOSEPH’S GIRLS SOCCER TEAM notched its third straight state championship this fall. THE CADETS’ GIRLS VOLLEYBALL TEAM also finished on top by winning the Class M state title. plishments of St. Joseph High during the fall season and fin- St. Joe’s concluded this cham- Mazo. She has the heart of a lion, player thus far, Jenna Bike, was School’s Girls’ Soccer Team ished 25-2 overall. This champi- pionship season with a 19-1-4 the heart of a champion.” a four-time All-State selection coached by Jack Nogueira. onship season, Babineau noted, won-lost-tied record. The lone Mazo and Fried shared the and the National Soccer Coaches This fall, though, another “Was a testament to the kids buy- loss came against FCIAC rival Cadets’ scoring lead this season Association of America’s 2015 Cadet team joined ing into the Ridgefield, 2-0, on October 9. with 21 goals apiece, and were National Player of the Year. She the soccer program.” However, Ridgefield went on to joined on the All-State team by just completed an outstanding squad at the “Quite simply, it’s In girls’ win the Class LL state title with a senior Tory Bike. sophomore season at Boston pinnacle. soccer, 2-1 verdict over Staples. “Maddie has played for my College. n The Girls’ the quality of the Nogueira Volleyball has created a Team, coached players we have. We dynasty across by Jeff his 18 seasons Babineau, cap- are blessed to have at St. Joe’s, tured the Class winning no M state title— outstanding kids.” fewer than six its first since state titles in 1997—with a that span. His hard-earned won-lost-tied 3-1 victory over host East Haven record stands at 304-75-25. on November 18. “Quite simply, it’s the quality “We’d lost to Greenwich of the players we have. We are (3-0) in the FCIAC title game,” blessed to have outstanding kids Babineau pointed out, “but it was who want to come to St. Joseph,” a good loss. We’d gotten a little explained Nogueira, who also overconfident. It woke the girls serves as a guidance counselor at up. It got us going for the state the school. tournament.” The Cadets wrapped up their Junior Elena Ball, an out- third straight Class L state title side hitter, rose to the challenge with a 1-0 victory over top-seeded and was voted Most Valuable RHAM-Hebron on November Player of the state tournament. 18 at Middletown High School. Teammate Bridget Fatse, a senior Freshman forward Maddie outside hitter, was selected to Fried, who was selected to the 10% off with this ad! the Connecticut High School CHSCA All-State team, scored 14 December 2017 Obituaries Sister Caridad, 88 Sister Maria Caridad Desell (Sister Mary Caritas), RSM, of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas died peacefully on October 3 at Deacon Salvatore Clarizio her home in the remote rural village of Chanmagua, Guatemala. She was born in West Hartford on August 30, 1929, and entered Dr. Salvatore M. Clarizio, ministry. “He was very devoted the Sisters of Mercy in 1947, faithfully serving God’s people for Ph.D., 81, of Trumbull, passed to those who were ill, continuing 70 years. away peacefully on December 1 to offer a Communion Service at Sister Caridad excelled as a popular, dynamic elementary at St. Vincent’s Medical Center. area nursing homes” said Father school teacher in Hartford and Bridgeport parochial schools. After Born in Bridgeport in May Gannon, “and he showed his school hours, she discovered her real passion for serving the urban 1936, he was a son of the great love for our Blessed Mother poor as counselor, supporter and friend, persistently advocating late Michele and Clementine through his ministry as spiritual for needed social change. She was a teacher at the former St. Mary Bocchino Clarizio. Dr. Clarizio director for the Legion of Mary.” School in Bridgeport when her ministry led her to Guatemala in worked as a clinical psychologist He was an avid collector and jazz 1971 to serve the tiny native populations of 13 mountain villages. for the State of CT Department of enthusiast. Compelled by a heartfelt compassion, she carried in her spirit a Mental Retardation, with many Deacon Clarizio is survived by vision of a vibrant future for the mountain natives. years of dedicated service before his wife of 57 years, Agnes, six She ministered unceasingly, advocating for the advancement his retirement. A graduate of children and 13 grandchildren. and well-being of the Chanmaguan people, seeking new life for Fairfield Prep, he earned his B.A. He was predeceased by his broth- multiple villages in need of vital services, including bringing run- from Catholic University, an er, Anthony. ning water into the entire area and establishing a highly success- M.A. from George Washington A wake was held at St. ful coffee co-op. This she did for 46 years. Dr. Salvatore M. Clarizio University, and his Ph.D. from Theresa Church on December 6. Her life became her ministry; her ministry became one with Walden University. A Mass of Christian Burial was her life. She chose to be buried in Chanmagua, the place she In 2000, he was ordained walking image of the Serenity celebrated at St. Theresa’s the called “home.” a deacon for the Diocese of Prayer, a quiet man, but a tre- following morning. Bishop Frank Sister Caridad was recognized and acclaimed in her native Bridgeport, serving faithfully at mendous worker in the vineyard J. Caggiano was the principal cel- home of Connecticut with several honors, including the 1994 St. St. Theresa Parish in Trumbull. of the Lord.” ebrant; Father Gannon delivered Joseph College Heart of Life award and the 2001 Most Reverend “Everybody loved Sal,” During his diaconate, Deacon the homily. Interment followed Joseph F. Donnelly Memorial Award from the Archdiocese of said Father Brian Gannon, St. Clarizio served in prisons, hos- in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Hartford Office of Urban Affairs. Theresa’s pastor. “He was the pital ministries and bereavement Trumbull. n A memorial Mass was celebrated for Sister Caridad on October 21 at St. Mary Home Chapel, West Hartford. n

FUNERAL GUIDE Deceased Clergy of the Diocese of Bridgeport: December 17—January 20 NEIL F. HARDING Director/Owner Collins December Funeral Home 17 Rev. Kieran T. Ahearn...... 1997 19 Rev. Philip Morrissey...... 2008 92 East Avenue • Norwalk 21 Msgr. Constantine R. Caldas...... 2015 866-0747 26 Rev. Vincent P. Cleary...... 1965 William A. Skidd William G. Lahey, Jr. 27 Rev. Ignatius Baraniak, OFM Conv...... 1980 William R. Kelley William P. Skidd 29 Msgr. James H. Grady...... 1967 Harding Andrew D. Skidd 30 Rev. M. Joseph McCarthy...... 2006 FUNERAL HOME January Family owned for four generations 1 Rev. Michael J. Flynn, C.S.Sa...... 1995 2 Rev. Joseph J. Malloy...... 2016 Rev. Robert J. McDermott...... 1989 Pre-need Funeral Planning 3 Msgr. Pierre A. Botton...... 2010 4 Msgr. Francis Medynski...... 2008 Matthew K. Murphy, 6 Msgr. William J. Fox...... 1962 Funeral Director 7 Rev. Walter E. Bozek...... 1995 8 Rev. Mr. Edward R. Kovacs...... 1999 203/227-3458 267 Greenwich Avenue Rev. Joseph P. Biondino...... 2001 FAX 203/227-1420 Greenwich, CT 06830 9 Rev. Gerald T. Devore...... 2011 203-869-0315 Rev. Mr. Hugh Sweeney...... 1990 Rev. Robert Nemeth, O.F.M. Conv...... 1998 13 Rev. Daniel J. Deehan...... 1976 210 POST ROAD EAST 14 Rev. M. Joseph Joaquin...... 2013 WESTPORT, CT 06881 Msgr. Joseph A. Sullivan...... 2001 “Quiet Dignity Without Extravagance” 15 Msgr. Harry L. Hale...... 2003 Affordable Direct Cremation Msgr. G. Robert Hanover...... 1992 Title XIX Welcome 16 Rev. Thomas B. Gloster...... 1956 18 Rev. Edward J. Small, SJ...... 2010 19 Rev. Andrew L. Horvat...... 1973 Rev. William D. Thompson...... 2004 20 Msgr. George D. Birge...... 2015 Z Family owned for three generations Z Handling every detail Msgr. Ralph P. Buongervino...... 1994 Msgr. Andrew T. Cusack...... 2004 Z Call for free informative brochure Z In home arrangements Rev. Andrew L. Farkas...... 1967 Z 203-254-1414 or 800-542-0218 Z Memorial service facility Rev. Robert E. Onze...... 2010 15 December 2017 Nuestra Voz Presencia hispana en el centro de Greenwich

Por MARICARMEN GODOY tura latina le permite identificarse mente llamarlos: feligreses activos plenamente con sus fieles y por de Santa María. Entre 150 a 200 feligreses de eso les visita frecuentemente en Elizabeth Rodriguez, oriunda origen hispano acuden frecuen- sus hogares, cena junto con ellos, de Colombia y Alicia Condori, temente a los servicios religiosos bendice sus hogares. “Nosotros del Perú, tienen más de 20 años y comunitarios de la Iglesia de somos familiares, hospitalarios, de asistir a la misa del sábado Saint Mary, que ya cumplió más siempre tenemos algo que brindar en la noche y también de cola- de 20 años de aglutinarlos en el y siempre estamos dispuestos. Eso borar en las fiestas, desayunos ministerio hispano. nos identifica y diferencia de otras y encuentros pastorales de la En su mayor, los feligreses culturas”, dijo el Padre Rolando. parroquia. Ellas coinciden que vienen de Stamford, Norwalk, En un pequeño sondeo realiza- pertenecer a Saint Mary es una Port Chester, N.Y., y de do al momento de la entrevista, “sabrosura” porque se conocen los vecindarios centrales de el Padre Rolando hace un mapa entre todos, colaboran y están Greenwich. Y, obviamente por imaginario sobre sus feligreses y abiertos para cualquier requeri- venir de otras iglesias no pueden cuenta que el cien por ciento de miento de los miembros. “No tener un registro oficial de parro- los jefes de hogar son inmigrantes tenemos jefe ni nada parecido. quianos latinos. y que la primera generación de THE HISPANIC MINISTRY in Greenwich flourishes under the guidance of Quien esté más a la mano se Aunque sí, por más de dos latinos nacidos en los Estados Father Rolando Arias, parochial vicar of St. Mary Parish, with the encourage- encarga de hacer las compras décadas Saint Mary es testigo de Unidos de su parroquia aun está ment of their pastor, Father Cyprian La Pastina. Father Arias, like many of his para preparar el desayuno o de las suntuosas fiestas en honor a la muy pequeños. “Por eso es que parishioners, comes from Colombia, but the close-knit community of many preparar el altar y las fiestas de virgen mexicana de Guadalupe, vienen a Santa María, porque nationalities collaborates closely on weekly Masses in Spanish and on special Navidad o de la Virgen. Vivimos la Inmaculada Concepción, necesitan una palabra de aliento, feast days. en comunidad y eso hace que la Virgen de Fátima; y de los necesitan de la presencia de Dios nuestro comportamiento sea de desayunos dominicales mensuales en sus hogares y necesitan trasla- alrededores de Greenwich, com- de la Virgen de Guadaulpe es colaborar en todo lo que pode- con menú latinoamericano, más dar su fe a sus hijos”. pacta, con educación superior, realizada y esperada con pacien- mos”, dijeron. el café de la tarde después de la El Padre le da un sitial al piadosa e inmensamente trabaja- cia de un año a otro. Y cree que (Se celebra la Santa Misa en misa en español de las 7:30PM grupo católico hispano que acude dora y colaboradora”. el trabajo de él está en no dividir español cada sábado a las 7 pm. del sábado. a la Iglesia de Santa María; “Es Aunque la mayoría no vienen a sus feligreses en hispanos, filipi- Para más información, llame a El Padre Rolando Arias, vica- una población asentada en los de México, sin embargo, la fiesta nos ni anglosajones, sino sencilla- 203.869.9393.) n rio de la parroquia, admite que a pesar de ser el pueblo un lugar mayormente poblado de anglos con una alta tasa de ingresos económicos, sin embargo, la ¡Viva la Virgen de Guadalupe! acogida y el acompañamiento Por MARICARMEN GODOY obediencia de la Virgen María, a la comunidad hispana es de que decidió aceptar la voluntad manos abiertas. El Grupo Guadalupano de de Dios de cargar en su vientre al Prueba de esto, por más de Norwalk que viene mostran- Niño Jesús. veinte años se lleva a cabo la do su devoción a la Virgen Por eso, acorde con el Padre vigilia de la misa del sábado María en la advocación de Acosta, la presencia de la Virgen a las 7:30 pm completamente la Guadalupana desde hace María es tan importante para en español, varios bautizos y casi dos décadas, ha logrado la salvación del mundo, porque la educación cristiana escolar esparcir su legado en todas las representa el símbolo de la obedi- para preparar a los niños y adul- iglesias hispanas del conda- encia a Dios; de ahí que la Virgen tos a su Primera Comunión y do, lo que ha dado lugar que de Guadalupe ha calado tan Confirmación. en este momento en forma profundamente en la comunidad Entre las preocupaciones de simultánea y masiva se festeje mexicana y latinoamericana. la parroquia, se encuentra el alto a la Emperatriz de América y Gabina Sánchez, la madre número de personas adultas no en los Estados Unidos sea una de Ryan Pedraza, de 11 años confirmadas por eso, este año, la de las tradiciones mexicanas de edad, es el reflejo de la devo- rectoría decidió realizar un curso ROSES IN DECEMBER SURROUND the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe más fuertes e importantes cele- ción peregrina de la Virgen de at St. Ladislaus Parish in Norwalk. They are a reminder of the roses Our Lady especial para preparar a tomar el bradas. Guadalupe. Ella pertenece a Sacramento de la Confirmación gave to St. Juan Diego to bring to the bishop of Mexico City as proof of her request Durante la Misa domini- la parroquia de Saint Mary en to build a church. When he opened his tilma, a rough cloak of local fibers, her dirigido a adultos que se han con- cal de Acción de Gracias y el Norwalk. Durante las fiestas de image was present on the inside. Devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe, whose vertido al catolicismo o que no Rosario en honor a Nuestra la Guadalupana va por las igle- feast day is December 12, has spread throughout the Americas. han tomado el sacramento. Señora de Guadalupe, el Padre sias de Norwalk, “prestando” El Padre Arias, nativo de Juan Carlos Acosta, párroco de a su hijo que hace el papel del cocinero del Río, un restaurante patronales. Este año, Carmelo Armenia, Colombia, tiene cuatro la Parroquia de San Ladislaus indio Santo Juan Diego llevan- típico mexicano de Norwalk, y sus amigos cercanos lograron años de ser ordenado sacerdote en Norwalk, hizo hincapié que do flores al Obispo de México, también por las dos últimas juntar más de 1.500 dólares en la Iglesia de Saint Mary en durante el tiempo de Adviento tal como cuenta la historia de décadas viene colaborando con para comprar los ingredientes Bethel. Dice que sus 150 o 200 se encuentra viviendo la Iglesia las apariciones de la Virgen de el Grupo Guadalupano y desde de lo que fue más de 500 platos feligreses provienen de su país que se cumplan las escrituras: Guadalupe. siempre se ha encargado de donar de arroz, carne, frijoles, ensala- natal, mayoritariamente; seguido “Dios amó tanto al mundo La fiesta de la Guadalupana la comida a los feligreses como da y chile picante. por Perú, Ecuador y de lejos: que envió a su único el pri- fue celebrada en la Iglesia de parte del agasajo que hace el La Virgen fue también feste- México y Guatemala. mogénito”. Esa presencia de Saint Joseph por el Grupo Grupo para los acompañantes de jada en parroquias por todo el Como parte del trabajo pasto- Dios en la tierra venía con la Guadalupano. Don Carmelo, la Virgen Morena en sus fiestas Condado de Fairfield. n ral, el vicario admite que su cul- 16 December 2017 Column: Thomas Hicks Is this as good as it gets?

who offers us a ticket to happi- a thousand days.” Happiness When he was 66 years old, ness, only to find that we have is always imperiled. Sigmund the renowned atheist, Sigmund Potpourri boarded the wrong train. Freud explained that happiness Freud, spoke of a “strange long- The Book of Ecclesiastes says is always threatened from three ing,” and thought there might be, By Thomas H. Hicks that happiness is a gift of God, directions: from our own bodies, perhaps, room for a life of quite who decides who should have it from the external world, from another kind. I’m amazed at and should not (Eccl.2:24-26). This our relations with other people. atheists who claim that the world idea is expressed by the Sufi writ- The trouble which comes from and life here are complete and Thomas Hicks is a member er Hafiz: “Ever since Happiness this last source is perhaps more satisfactory and sufficient. For heard your name, it has been run- destructive than any other. me, God is constantly placing a of St. Theresa Parish in Trumbull. ning through the streets trying to My second conviction is that message on my heart that says find you. And several times in the nothing satisfies us as we thought “I made you for more.” I have last week, God himself has even it would. We know something is adjusted downward my estimate ho among you observations about happiness: come to my door—asking me for missing. There is an ache we feel of how much happiness I could delights One is that the happiest people your address.” (“Several Times in deep within for something more. extract from the world. in life?” are simply those who are the least the Last Week”) As someone put it, there’s a Even in our most satisfying (Psalm 34:12) unhappy. Much of people’s abili- Ecclesiastes also concludes “sigh in the soul,” a sadness. No moments we are aware of lim- “WRecently Time Magazine ty to be happy is based on genet- that happiness is not possible in matter how happy our lives are, itations. We are left with a con- put out a special edition titled ics—some people are just happier this world except in brief snatches this “sigh” never goes away. It stant feeling that something is The Science of Happiness: New than others. Asked what was the that should be treasured as gifts connects with what Shakespeare’s missing. There is some kind of an Discoveries for a More Joyful secret of happiness, a man I know from God. Cleopatra calls our “immortal immense longing that haunts us. Life. The following are a few of said, “Don’t grow up.” Without The following are my two longing.” Throughout his writ- I think we all experience sign- Time’s observations: Our idea doubt, the happiest people have deepest convictions about happi- ings, author John Updike tells posts that lead to knowing that of happiness changes at different the combination of a happy mar- ness. The first echoes Ecclesiastes. of experiencing intimations of nothing in the world can satisfy stages of life. Happiness involves riage and a job that they love. Happiness enough has fallen to an absence at the core of things. us fully, can give us ultimate hap- small adventures more than sen- As Thomas Aquinas said, the my lot, but I’ve come to know There comes a time, Aldous piness, can be the central drama sational experiences. It involves best happiness is making others that no happiness lasts. All happi- Huxley wrote, “When one of existence. We are all searching realizing the happiness of the happy. Happiness is found in ness is perilously fragile. There’s a asks even of Shakespeare and for something that the world is moment. People are happy when being important to somebody, story everyone can tell—the story Beethoven, ‘is this all?’” not giving us. The human soul is working toward a goal. Research privately important, feeling that about happiness lost. I think everyone knows what drawn to God. shows that heavy social-me- somebody needs you, thinks of The fifth century BC Greek I’m talking about, something The Book of Isaiah gives a dia users are less happy than you, is eager to see you. There historian, Herodotus, wrote that evades us. A married woman and wonderful metaphor for the idea others. The more people go on are joys which are transfigured the gods often bestow happiness mother of three told me, “There that nothing finite ultimately Facebook, the more their life sat- sorrows. A foundation of happi- only to uproot it. A Chinese are times when I simply lean my satisfies us: “for the bed shall be isfaction levels decline. Etc. ness is forgiveness. proverb says “a flower never head against the wall and say, too short to stretch out in, and From other research and life How often we think we have blooms for a hundred days, ‘Please, Lord, remind me there is the cover too narrow to wrap in” experience I have a few other found something or someone and we are never happy for more to life than this.’” (Isaiah 28:20). n

Sandy Hook from page 7 about flying and crossing heard the question ‘Why did God “Something has to change,” parish have appealed with him he keeps a photo that was bridges. When I take a trip and allow this to happen?’” he said. he says. “We have to reclaim to stay in the area because his taken in the days following the have to fly, it starts days ahead “The community identified it the value of human life, but emotional and spiritual support shooting. In the clouds above of time.” as evil in our midst. Eventually, the changes have to come from is there. St. Rose of Lima School is the Many grappled with the though, we found that mid- within each person. Unless each Since his ordination in 1973, distinct image of a Corpus, question of God and the exis- dle-school students were starting one of us reclaims the dignity of he has served the Body of tence of evil. Looking back at to ask the really difficult questions human life, this will continue.” in parishes in Christ cruci- the media attention that thrust like ‘Why do bad things happen In the past five years, some Bridgeport, “We have to reclaim fied. him into the national spotlight, to good people?’ and ‘How could people sought consolation in Stamford, “I real- he says the number one ques- God let this happen?’” striving to make the world a bet- Monroe and the value of human ized that tion every reporter asked is They are questions about free ter place through acts of kindness Shelton, where was the sign “Did I lose my faith?” will, evil and suffering that have and compassion. At St. Rose, he was pastor life, but the changes of a burden “I haven’t,’’ he said. “I’ve been raised often in the press and more ministries were created to of St. Joseph placed on been blessed with strong faith. social media with the increase help the community. There are Parish for 10 have to come from us,” he said. Without the Lord, I couldn’t in mass shootings in places like six active youth groups, three years. He grew A sign that have done what I had to do, Las Vegas and San Bernardino, men’s groups, a couples’ group up in a devout within each person.” Christ was although I admit my faith in and churches in Texas and South and in-house retreats. family and says with them in humanity has been challenged. I Carolina. Others turned to political caus- when he was 17 on his way to their pain and anguish. questioned my faith in other peo- Msgr. Weiss says his prayer es, hoping to make a difference school, he heard the voice of God Some tragedies seem too ple, but not my faith in God.” has always been that the world by seeking gun-control legislation. telling him, “Be a priest.” From great for the human heart to The young people in the par- would learn from Sandy Hook, Even though Msgr. Weiss joined that moment, he knew it was overcome, but Msgr. Weiss ish were among the first to ask that the world would change, fellow clergy in calling for stricter meant to be his vocation. believes nothing is impossible where God was in such a horrif- and yet whenever he reads about regulations, he has not lobbied in He tries to be hopeful as he with God’s love. It can lead to ic tragedy as they tried to recon- another shooting, he wonders Washington nor become a vocal looks to the future. He has seen healing and forgiveness and it cile their belief in an all-loving how we can change as a society advocate. Christ in the suffering at Sandy can make the impossible pos- God with evil in the world. if we don’t recover the respect for After 18 years as pastor, he is Hook, and he believes Jesus sible. Sometimes the road is a “In the beginning, I never life that has been lost. facing retirement. Many in the shares our suffering. On his desk, long one. n 17 December 2017 Column: Joe Pisani ‘Thank God ahead of time’

ing logger, street car operator, the way, God, many thanks.” was healed of a skin disease five hospital orderly and prison To tell the truth, my faith was years ago. Hers was the recog- Swimming Upstream guard. Even though he wanted flimsy. Father Solanus had once nized miracle that moved Father to be a diocesan priest, the sem- said, “Confidence is the very soul Solanus’ cause for sainthood By Joe Pisani inary encouraged him to enter of prayer.” Well, I lacked con- forward to beatification, one step a religious order because he fidence. Nevertheless, I prayed away from canonization. was struggling with his studies. as if I had it because I once read As far as my father, when the Eventually, he was accepted by that if you act like you trust, doctors did surgery, they discov- Joe Pisani has been a writer the Capuchin Franciscans and you’ll eventually receive the grace ered the tumor was completely ordained in 1904. that helps you trust. gone. They couldn’t believe it. and editor for 30 years. His assignments took him Last month, Father Solanus Neither could my sister, who to Harlem, Yonkers, Detroit Casey was beatified. More practices medicine and teaches at and Huntington, Ind., where he than 60,000 people gathered a well-known medical school. To here was a time when I and scoured the shelves to learn usually worked as the doorman. for the ceremony at Ford Field them, it was “inexplicable.” To didn’t pray ... unless I what I had to do to get a mira- Over the years, he met thousands in Detroit, where he had been me, it was entirely explicable. needed a miracle. Then, cle. I came upon a book titled, of people, who recognized his buried in St. Bonaventure My father lived another 12 TI prayed, but my faith “Nothing Short of a Miracle,” sanctity and compassion and Monastery. During the pro- years, and he lived a different life wasn’t particularly strong. To which contained accounts of 25 came seeking his prayers when cession, his relics were carried because he knew he had been my thinking, miracles occurred healings attributed to modern they were troubled or sick. Father by people who received favors given a tremendous gift from God. in foreign countries like Lourdes, saints such as Padre Pio, Mother Solanus also had a special love through his intercession, among Blessed Solanus Casey, pray France, or past Teresa, Frances for the poor and ran a soup kitch- them a Panamanian woman who for us. n centuries when Cabrini and en during the Depression. the Apostles “Father Solanus Pope John Paul Throughout his life, he freely walked the earth. II. gave his time to anyone who also had a special Creating memories Certainly not These mir- asked, comforting and consoling since 1920 in 21st century acles had the and encouraging them to pray love for the poor Shelton. Church’s seal of to God and Our Lady. Many Family owned On one occa- approval. They healings, which included troubled sion, I desper- and ran a soup were miracles pregnancies, skin diseases, tumors & operated ately needed a that had also and injuries, were attributed to Open Sundays miracle because kitchen during been scruti- his intercession. my father had nized by secular I started praying to him for a www.HansensFlowerShop.com been diagnosed the Depression.” experts, many of miracle and wore a medal that 1040 Post Road, Fairfield with a malignant whom believed said, “Venerable Solanus Casey, tumor on his larynx and was told in the AMA more than God, Pray for Us.” I prayed and (203) 255-0461 he would lose his voice box, and which means they considered prayed and prayed. his life. them “inexplicable.” One of Father Solanus’ favor- The doctors at one of the fin- I needed to select a saint ite sayings was “Thank God est cancer centers in the country for the miraculous intercession ahead of time” for any favor you gave him a few months to live. that would save my father, so I requested because it was a sign of They were reluctant to operate perused the stories until I came faith that you believed God was and chose to do radiation therapy upon a Capuchin Franciscan going to deliver. I took his advice By to shrink the tumor. Decades of named Father Solanus Casey, and began to thank God every www.curtissryan.com smoking and drinking had led to the sixth of 16 children born in time I prayed—“God, I just want this, although my father insisted 1870 of Irish immigrants on a to say thank you for healing my tobacco and booze had nothing Wisconsin farm. father.” “God, that’s terrific what to do with it. During his early life, he you’re going to do for my father I went to Barnes and Noble worked at different jobs, includ- and I want to thank you.” “By

Hitting the Right Notes from page 5 Garcia asked the crowd—and Foundation scholarship to Kolbe County as all very well-off, but now, 14 years later, is a married Cathedral—is about 60 percent. it’s not all gold coast. State and mother of four and looking to The graduation rate at Kolbe federal budget cuts have had a pursue her BA in human services. is 100 percent. devastating impact on the most Brianna Hopkins currently “It’s impossible to fail!” vulnerable members of our com- ONE OF CT’S LARGEST VOLUME HONDA DEALERS attends Kolbe Cathedral High Brianna told the crowd with obvi- munity. And the gap is widen- School in Bridgeport with help ous enthusiasm. Kolbe Cathedral ing—38 percent of people who CT’S FIRST ESTABLISHED HONDA DEALER • APRIL 1973 from an Inner-City Foundation also has the impressive record live in Fairfield County are now • Open All Day Saturday for Service & Parts scholarship. She is an AP and of having sent 100 percent of its struggling to make ends meet. • Senior Citizen Discount Honor Roll student, and as a graduates on to college for the Without foundations like ours, senior is now applying to colleges past several years. a lot of people are going to have CALL CURTISS RYAN AT to become a physician’s assis- The charity’s fall dinner nowhere to turn.” tant. Brianna pointed out in her benefit is their largest and most (For more information about the 1-800-523-4190 remarks that the average grad- important fundraiser of the year, Inner-City Foundation or to donate, 333 Bridgeport Ave • Shelton uation rate at Bridgeport public according to Executive Director visit innercityfoundation.org, email M-Th 9am-9pm • Fri 9am-6pm • Sat 9am-5pm 203-929-1484 schools—her alternative if she Richard Stone. [email protected], NEW & USED VEHICLES • SALES • SERVICE • PARTS • BODY SHOP had not received an Inner-City “People think of Fairfield or call 203.416.1496.) n NEW & USED VEHICLES • SALES • SERVICE • PARTS • BODY SHOP 18 December 2017 Celebrating Advent Children pray ‘Angelus’ TRUMBULL—The Parish of St. Catherine of Siena observed a very special moment on Friday, December 8, when Bishop Caggiano celebrated the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, met with students, and blessed the new four-manual Photo by John Vanacore Action Photography. Walker Technical organ, fund- ed by a bequest from Dorothy Cotton. At that Mass, Bishop Caggiano blessed 12 images of Cadets Rally to the Blessed Mother, which are now installed in each of the class- rooms of St. Catherine of Siena Win State Title! School. “Beginning this Advent, the CHESHIRE—The St. Joseph High School Cadets team won students of St. Catherine of Siena their 13th State Title on Monday night, defeating the Ansonia School are praying the beautiful Chargers 42-36 at the Class S Championship at Cheshire High prayer of the Angelus each day, School. The Cadets (12-1) rallied from a 3-touchdown deficit at to recall and give thanks for the halftime to defeat the Chargers (12-1). St. Joseph trailed 28-7 in moment that Mary’s “yes” to the the third quarter before scoring 28 unanswered points to take a Angel Gabriel’s message made 35-28 lead with 6:47 left on a 58-yard touchdown run by Jaden possible the Incarnation, and Shirden. It became the first of three touchdowns during a 52-sec- thereby made possible our sal- ond span. SJ quarterback David Summers threw four of his five vation. That is the source of our touchdowns in the second half, but it wasn’t until Ace Luzetti’s rejoicing!” said Father Marcello. second interception with 2:12 left on the clock that secured the title for the Cadets. The last time the Cadets won against the (St. Catherine of Siena Parish is Chargers in the Class S finals was in 2010 when the Cadets were located at 220 Shelton Road in the led by current-Pittsburgh Steeler, Tyler Matakevich ‘11. n Nichols area of Trumbull. On the web: www.stcathtrumbull.com.) n

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES! Bits and Pieces The Diocese of Bridgeport posts career opportunities at various times during the year. SOLEMN CHORAL Meetings are held in Fairfield on org, or Michael Tintrup, LCSW: VESPERS and benediction of the first and third Fri. of every 203.241.0987; [email protected]. Opportunities become available the Most Blessed Sacrament will month (Jan. 5; Jan. 19) at 7:30 FINANCIAL PEACE in our Catholic Center, parishes, schools, celebrate the patronal feast at the pm. For more info and for direc- UNIVERSITY: A nine-week and at other organizations Basilica of St. John the Evangelist, tions, call Bette: 203.338.0503 or Christian-based money manage- throughout Fairfield County. Stamford, on Wed., Dec. 27, a Peggy: 203.834.1287. ment class that teaches step by 7:30 pm. Reception follows; all TRADITIONAL LATIN step how to create a budget, pay are welcome. For more info, con- MASS is celebrated at St. off debt, spend wisely, and save Please visit our diocese website often at: tact the parish: 203.324.1553. Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish, for the future will be offered at St. www.bridgeportdiocese.org/human-resources/home JOIN IN PRAYING the Brookfield, the first Sun. of each James Parish, Stratford, starting to view all positions Sorrowful Mysteries of the month (Jan. 7) at 4 pm. For more Wed., Jan. 10, at 7 pm. The cost Rosary for Persecuted Christians info, call the parish: 203.775.5117. of class materials is $119. For “COME AND SEE” if you 10-11:30 am. Cost: $30. For more from your home/car/office the GOSPEL OF LIFE more info, call David Zamachaj: are being called to a vocation in info, go to www.stcath.org or first Tues. of every month (Jan. SOCIETY meets at St. Mary 203.375.5887. the Secular Franciscan Order. call: 203.637.3661. 2) at 7 pm. How? Before 7 pm, Parish, Norwalk, the second Sat. MASS OF HEALING AND The Secular Franciscan Holy SIGHT AND SOUND call 877.216.5269 and type in the of each month (Jan. 13) at 10 HOPE: the Charismatic Renewal Spirit Fraternity invites everyone THEATER in Lancaster, PA, pin number 96869. am following the 9 am Respect Services announces a Mass of to St. Anthony of Padua Church, will present “Jesus,” the musical PRIESTLY DISCERNMENT Life Mass. For more info, contact Healing and Hope on Mon., Jan. 15, Fairfield, on Sat., Jan. 20, at 9:30 stage adventure about the most RETREAT, a day of recollection John Juhasz: 203.762.3661 or at 7:30 pm, at St. Lawrence Parish, am to celebrate Mass with Msgr. famous person ever to walk the with Bishop Frank J. Caggiano [email protected]. Shelton, with Fr. Charles Allen. Ernest Esposito. Social and meet- earth, on Tues.-Wed., March focused on the question of dis- SURVIVORS GROUP: There For more info, call the Charismatic ing follow. For more info, call 20-21, 2018. Chartered bus cerning a priestly vocation will be will be an upcoming gathering for Renewal Office: 203.456.5610. Pat Heile, OFS: 203.255.8801 or leaves Christ the King Parish, offered for men between the ages of any person who has been sexually MOMs+DADs prayer/sup- [email protected]. Trumbull, at 7 am on the March 18-35 on Sat., Jan. 13, from 9 am-5 abused as a minor to meet with the port group for those with Down BIBLE STUDY: The 20. The trip is 2 days/1 night and pm at St. John Fisher Seminary, victim assistance coordinators and Syndrome, their family and Spirituality of Paul will be held includes round trip motor coach, Stamford. There are some guest fellow survivors of sexual abuse, friends meets the third Thurs. of at St. Catherine of Siena Parish, overnight stay, tickets, breakfast rooms available for overnight, Fri., Wed., Jan. 10, from 12:30-2 pm at every month (Jan. 18), at 7:30 Riverside, with eight sessions and dinner. Cost: $305. For more Jan. 12. For more info, contact the Catholic Center, Bridgeport. If pm at St. Mary Parish, Norwalk. held Mon. evenings 7:30-9 pm, info and for reservations, contact Fr. John Connaughton, director of you are an adult survivor of abuse For more info, contact straposto- Jan. 29-March 19, 2018 or Tues. Fr. Marcel: 203.434.7208 or mar- vocations:frconnaughton@diopbt. as a minor, and you would like [email protected]. mornings, Jan. 30-March 20, [email protected]. n org. RSVP by Thurs., Jan. 4, to to learn more about the Annual Amanda Day: [email protected] or Mass for Survivors of Sexual 203.322.5331. Abuse, upcoming meetings and St. Matthew Drives to Texas from page 3 DIVORCED AND other resources that are available “When this appened, he was volunteers at Mass, and they lost everything again. SEPARATED Catholics are in our diocese, please contact reaching out to see how we received rosaries and pecans from “I went to visit families invited to join “Hearts Renewed,” one of our Victim Assistance could help. He asked us about the family’s trees. the second time and as they a support group for divorced Coordinators: Erin Neil, LCSW: reconstructing homes, and I felt “At work, I talked with told me their stories, they or separated men and women. 203.650.3265; eneil@diobpt. compelled to go. FEMA was people from different faiths, asked, ‘How could this happen overwhelmed. They needed us.” and everybody said Harvey was twice?’” he recalled. “Many At 64 years old, Weeks said it’s terrible, but nobody was doing were depressed and hurt and been a while since he restored an anything,” Weeks said. “I credit struggling to understand.” Speaking to Sparrows entire house, but he was up to Msgr. Walter with taking the The priest, who has been the challenge. initiative. He was driven to do pastor for 12 years and rebuilt TRIUMBULL—Join us on Wednesday, January 10, or Thursday, “We got to Texas, went this and I wanted to be part of it the church barely over two January 18 at 7 pm at St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Trumbull, for a to the parish and met the because as Christians we’re called years ago, has a special devo- free screening of the documentary film Speaking to Sparrows. team,” Weeks recalled. “They to help other human beings.” tion to Our Lady. He told the The Marian Community of Reconciliation and the Leadership explained what needed to be In the aftermath of Harvey, parish, “We have to look at our Institute are co-sponsoring the two screenings. The evening will done.” The next day, they rose Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish pain through Mary’s eyes.” include screening the film followed by refreshments and small- at 5 am to begin the reconstruc- reached out to the wider com- The church has a beautiful group, age-appropriate discussion. tion and drove to the first of munity and led the relief effort statue of Our Lady of Sorrows Speaking to Sparrows is a documentary film about women finding three houses that had sustained in the county through donations and part of a prayer to her con- courage to confront the uncomfortable. The film brings to light the four feet of flooding and needed from Connecticut and elsewhere, tains the words, “Mary, give issues facing women in today’s world and creates space for the diffi- extensive repairs. Father Flores said. us your eyes so that we can cult conversations. “Everybody wanted to do as “We had a full medical clinic see beyond our suffering and The film serves to invite each woman to see themselves as much as they could,” he said. that treated 1,000 people of every pain to the glory of Christ’s beloved daughters of God. It is incredibly powerful for women to “One woman was wearing a faith with emergency room doc- Resurrection.” He told them know that they are not alone and that their worth is determined by boot because she had injured tors and nurses and a pharmacy,” that’s what they had to do. much more than the size of their waist or their relationship status. her leg, but that didn’t stop he said. “We made their services In their suffering, God pro- Speaking to Sparrows fearlessly confronts issues such as body her from kneeling on the pile available to everybody. We also vided hope, he said. image, the pressure to be perfect and successful, dating, isolation, of sheet rock and cutting piece gave out food, medical supplies “The generosity of Msgr. father wounds, abuse, eating disorders, lust and pornography. after piece so we could nail and cleaning supplies. I told the Walter, St. Matthew’s and the Speaking to Sparrows is a film that can be used as a launchpad them up.” parish that if people are generous business people of Connecticut for authentic conversation in homes, small groups and schools. “Even though this family had to us, we have to be generous to really gave us a lot of hope Further, the film provides this healing space for women across no money, they spent the entire others. There is no distinction because we realized there are all generations. Regardless of age, women struggle with the same day cooking for us and served us here. We are all one people.” people who care and know what issues and will benefit from Speaking to Sparrows whether they are dinner,” he said. “They were so Father Flores said the two the Gospel is all about. I couldn’t 16 or 60. proud to do that. It was a hum- storms were extreme hardships for believe they drove all the way The event is free, but a free will offering is requested. bling experience because they the parish, which has 3,000 families, from Connecticut to help us. I (The film is appropriate for ages 16+. For more info, visit the film’s had lost everything.” 60 percent of whom are immigrants. thank them all and I am hum- n website: speakingtosparrows.com/about.) The parish honored the Just as they were rebuilding, they bled by their generosity.” n erry hristmas MAs we celebrate the many blessings Cin our lives, St. Vincent’s extends our best wishes to you and your family for a joyous Christmas season and a New Year filled with peace, prosperity and good health.

stvincents.org / 203-576-6000 The Knights of Columbus Christmas around the World NEW HAVEN—The This year’s exhibition features popular display of two dozen crèches from across the map. Christmas trees showcases Knights of Columbus Items on display are from the the imagination and talent of Museum opened its museum’s own collection, includ- Connecticut Catholic elemen- ing its popular 120-square-foot tary schoolchildren, who create 13th annual Christmas Neapolitan diorama, along with handmade ornaments and trim exhibition on November recent acquisitions of Polish in their classrooms then travel to the museum to 18 with tour the Christmas more than exhibition and decorate the 65 Nativity trees. The festival scenes on opened Saturday, December 2. The display. Peace event included on Earth: children’s crafts and live music Crèches of by the Yuletide the World Carolers. The show continues continues through January 28, 2018, through and visitors are February 19, invited to vote for the “People’s 2018. Choice” Christmas tree. St. Francis A Christmas- of Assisi, in the time Family 13th century, Day takes place popularized the December 31 from representation noon to 3 pm, of Jesus’ birth with crafts and live at Bethlehem, and for centuries szopki, stone sculptures from music from Joyful Noise. artists have depicted the biblical Zimbabwe, and Hummel figu- The museum’s popular his- account of that event in various rines. Also included are crèches torical exhibition, World War forms. The crèche or Nativity on loan from the Glencairn I: Beyond the Front Lines, is scene, far more than a decora- Museum in Bryn Athyn, Pa.; the also on view throughout the tion, is one of many visual repre- International Marian Research Christmas season. The show sentations of this historic event. Institute at the University of commemorates the 100th anni- The museum has featured Dayton, Ohio; the Loyola versary of America’s entrance crèche displays yearly, centered University Museum of Art in into the “Great War.” on the artistic expression of par- Chicago; and St. Joseph Oratory (The Knights of Columbus ticular countries or regions of the on Mount Royal in Montreal, Museum, 1 State St., New Haven, globe. Each show celebrates the Canada. is open 10 am-5 pm daily with free diversity of culture and the his- Also a part of the museum’s admission and parking. More infor- tory of Christianity in an area of Christmas tradition is its annual mation is available at 203.865.0400 the world. Christmas Tree Festival. This or kofcmuseum.org.) n 22 December 2017 Youth Choir Christmas Concert Arise and Shine! BRIDGEPORT—The perform a challenging program of flute, Dr. Jessica Raposo; oboe, Diocesan Youth Choir Christmas Christmas songs and chants from Dr. Ralph Kirmser; trumpet, Concert will be held at the different ages and cultures. Nicholas Loafman; and percus- Regina A. Quick Center for the The evening will include some sion, Don O’Keefe Arts of Fairfield University on Christmas Concert favorites This year Scripture read- Sunday, December 17, at 7 pm. including “Arise and Shine,” ings in between songs will be This will be the third “Gaudete,” “Festival Sanctus” done in Vietnamese, Ukrainian Christmas Concert for the youth and “Siyahamba!” The choir will and Spanish. The Diocesan choir formed by Bishop Frank also introduce some new music Youth Choir recently recorded J. Caggiano. It has become one and surprises including “Let There a Christmas Special for Shalom of the most joyous and inspiring Be Peace on Earth” and “Calypso World Catholic Channel, to be events of the year in the diocese. Lullabye” featuring soloist Gospel aired Christmastime. The 100-member youth choir, singer Adrienne Reedy. (Tickets are $20. Order tickets under the direction of Mary Supporting the choir will online at quickcenter.fairfield.edu Bozzuti Higgins of Wilton, will be accompanist Clay Zambo; or call the box office: 203.254.4010.) n 23 December 2017 Youth Choir Christmas Concert Advent/Christmas A Christmas Revelation

By JOHN J. FLYNN She continued, “The Cub Master storm the stage. Immediately one is always the Santa at our holiday of them took my hat and passed Forty-five years ago my only party.” it around as they circled me. I son, John, was eight years old After recovering from the attempted to retrieve my hat as and he wanted to be a Cub Scout. shock, I agreed and purchased a they overturned the gift barrel “All my friends are Cub Scouts, I Santa Claus outfit. The night of and grabbed at my beard, hat and want to be one too” he said. the holiday party I was ensconced coat. I was helpless to defend So I took him to the Cub in a velvet chair behind the cur- myself as fifty-five boys circled Scout meeting at the public tain on the stage of the public me like wild Indians. They yelled, school in Pound Ridge, N.Y., school auditorium. “You’re not Santa Claus, you’re where we lived at the time, and I The children sang “Rudolph Mr. Flynn! You’re a phony!” spoke to one of the den mothers. the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” I was holding my hair and She replied, “Of course your “Frosty the Snowman” and sever- beard on as they plucked at it, son is welcome. But Mr. Flynn, al other holiday songs that every and looking out into the audience you must realize we can’t run eight-year-old knows until finally for assistance, I was astonished to this program without the parents’ the curtain opened and the first find the entire audience of some participation. We need a Cub group of five children filed up to 250 family members in hysterics, Master.” the stage to receive a gift from the literally rolling on the floor with I knew nothing about scouting grab-bag barrel. laughter as they watched their and didn’t know if I could be a Cub dens have a maximum darling children terrorizing Santa Cub Master. She assured me that of five children, as they have Claus. SYMBOLIC DRESS—For John Flynn, putting on the garb of Santa Claus there were no other obligations. found that six is critical mass. Finally, the den mothers is a way of putting on the crucified Christ. This interior awareness produces A week later, she called to ask There were eleven dens present retrieved their charges, and I was astonishing results. me if I had a Santa Claus suit! that night, and they proceeded to ➤ continued on page 25

Saint Mary’s Church “The Mother Church of Norwalk” | 669 West Avenue, Norwalk | Est. 1848 | www.stmarynorwalk.net | 203.866.5546

Pastor: Rev. Richard G. Cipolla | Deacon Stephan A. Genovese Christmas Schedule Sacrament of Confession: 9:30am (Solemn Mass), 11:30am (Sung Mass), Thursday, December 21: 11:30am-12:00noon 1:15pm (Sung Mass in Spanish) Friday, December 22: 11:30am-12:00noon Saturday, December 23: 3:00-4:30pm Solemnity Christmas Eve Masses: of Mary/ 11:00pm Rosary by the Crèche Octave Day of Christmas 11:30pm Christmas Carols masses: 12:00noon Solemn Midnight Mass Monday, January 1: Christmas Day Masses: 10:00am Sung Mass Monday, December 25: 8:00am, (Missa Cantata)

Saint Mary’s Bookstore 203.854.9013 Offering a wide selection of books, crucifixes, rosaries, sacramentals from Italy and the Holy Land, First Communion and Confirmation gifts, and more. HOURS: Saturday 10am-2pm | Sunday 9-9:30am and 11am-2pm | Monday-Wednesday 12:45-3:45pm Thursday 2:45-3:45pm | Closed Friday and holidays Located in Parish Center building behind Saint Mary Church | VISA/MC ACCEPTED 24 December 2017 St. Theresa Parish, Trumbull Simple gifts bring joy overseas

By PAT HENNESSY with Jesus Christ. Just as Jesus receive nothing this Christmas. multiplied the loaves and fish, we Lannigan had learned about “Every kid is familiar with use our personal gifts and graces the Box of Joy project through getting Christmas presents,” to bring his presence into the Rose Talbot-Babey, diocesan said Karen Lannigan, director world.” coordinator of Faith Formation, of Confirmation preparation at Through Box of Joy, the and Jessica Nayden, director of St. Theresa Parish in Trumbull. Confirmation students have the the Catholic Service Corps. “Once you suggest it to them, opportunity to spread the joy of “We wanted to get the kids start- what kid isn’t going to want to Christ’s coming to children who ing to think outside themselves,” pack a toy for another kid?” rarely have much to celebrate. said Lannigan. “This way, they’re Sharing the Christmas joy, Cross Catholic works globally to giving a kid hope where before youngsters in the Confirmation increase the self-sufficiency of the they had none. They are the arms program at St. Theresa’s, grades poor. The ministry provides food, and hands of Jesus in the world.” seven through nine, have joined shelter, medical care, water and For the Box of Joy project, the with Cross Catholic Outreach in other essential needs to the poor- St. Theresa kids chose a child to the Box of Joy program to pack est of the poor in dioceses around buy gifts for, picking a girl or boy boxes of gifts for youngsters over- the world in the name of Christ. from toddlers to young teens. For seas. While they provide humanitar- many of them, it was eye-opening “Part of the faith forma- ian aid to the communities they to discover what a child in a poor because they like tion process is to perform the serve, Cross Catholic is aware of area thought of as a wonderful to get toys them- Corporal Works of Mercy, which the emotional wants of children gift. “It’s toothpaste, toothbrush- selves.” are essential to the Catholic in these communities. Through es, soap, shampoo, socks—things “Our trip to faith,” says Father Brian Gannon, this program, groups here can we take for granted here,” said Target to fill St. Theresa’s pastor. “We are deliver a Box of Joy to a child Lannigan. “Of course, our kids just this one box people who are seeking intimacy overseas who would otherwise bought and put in a few toys, too, was so meaning- ful,” said Kelly Csizmadia, whose son Colin took part in the project. “I watched my son anticipate what a boy aged 5-9 might NEED, and then also watched him excitedly choose items that same boy might WANT. From soap, toothpaste, and a Spiderman toothbrush, to NECESSITIES AND TOYS selected with love— Matchbox cars, Abigail Clark and Colin Csizmadia carefully pack their rubber dinosaurs, Box of Joy presents for youngsters overseas. The proj- lollipops, a col- ect encourages students in the St. Theresa, Trumbull, oring book and Confirmation program to become the caring hands of crayons, this was Christ in the world. more than a ser- vice project.” “Putting this out? What do they do then?’” together makes me so grateful for Lannigan said. all I have. God gave us his son at She explained to them that, of Christmas, so this is our chance the $9 per box that is sent along, to give to others,” said eighth- Cross Catholic reserves $2 for local grade Confirmation candidate development projects. From the St. Abigail Clark. “It’s really fun to Theresa youth alone, the project imagine this little girl’s reaction has added $346 to support long- when she sees what’s inside!” term needs in this community. Several of the St. Theresa “Each one of our kids has youngsters chose to fill more than made a child happy on Christmas one box. In all, the parish youth day, and each one of them has sent 173 boxes to Cross Catholic. helped that community grow “Some of the kids asked us, stronger. At a young age, they ‘This will help them for a little have already made a difference. while, but what happens when They can tell the world, ‘We did the toothpaste and soap run this!’ That’s pretty cool!” n 25 December 2017 Advent/Christmas Knights support St. Catherine Academy FAIRFIELD—The Knights gram that combines academics achieve their highest level of inde- of Columbus St. Pius X Council with vocational training and social pendence. #16347 in Fairfield recently pre- and independent living skills, St. In support of St. Catherine’s sented a large check to Helen Catherine Academy continues its dedication to their students, the Burland, executive director of the mission of helping each student St. Pius X Knights of Columbus St Catherine Academy, a diocesan Council #16347 held a Tootsie school for special needs children. (l-r) Thomas Kelty, Sr.; Charles Roll/Candy fundraising drive in Since its opening in 1999, St. Chiusano, who also serves as chair which $962 in donations were Catherine Academy has served stu- of the academy’s Board of Directors; received. The check presented by dents of all faiths who are impacted Helen Burland; Ralph Burke, Council the Knights represents the funds Grand Knight; and Art Wolf. The men with autism, as well as intellectual are wearing the apron worn when con- raised at the drive, which was held and developmental disabilities. ducting the drive and awarding tootsie at the annual St Pius X Parish Through a well-rounded pro- rolls to donors. Festival. n Trinity Catholic fights hunger STAMFORD—Bags of donated food lined the gym as the annual food drive run by the Trinity Catholic High School Student Council exceeded their goals again this year. Non-perishable goods were collected over two weeks and were combined with turkeys collected on November 21. The entire donation was blessed at the annual Thanksgiving Mass and then donated to the Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County, which provides food to over 100 non-profit agencies and programs in Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, Greenwich, New Canaan and Wilton. Goals for each grade level were set St. James Church and exceeded. Freshman goal: 810 lbs., 2110 Main Street, Stratford, Connecticut – 203-375-5887 donated 820 lbs.; Sophomore goal: 910 www.stjamesstratford.com – Rev. Thomas F. Lynch, lbs., donated 1,030 lbs.; Junior goal: 1,060 lbs., donated 2,032 lbs. and Senior FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT goal: 820 lbs., donated 1,411 lbs. Saturday, December 23 – Vigil Mass: 4:30pm A grand total of 5,293 lbs. of food Sunday, December 24 – 7:30am, 9:15am, and 11:15am were loaded on to the Food Bank’s CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE truck for distribution to various Sunday, December 24 – Vigil Masses: 4:00pm and 6:00pm agencies. n A Mass in celebration of the Lord’s birth at 11:00pm Monday, December 25 – 8:30am and 10:30am Make a promise to your God today by making a greater A Christmas Revelation from page 23 commitment in 2018 to open your heart to experience God’s allowed to escape out the back portion of my humiliation.” an abrupt halt as people left their intimate love by your consistent participation in Sunday Eucharist. door of the stage. I was breathless, in shock. It vehicles to have their pictures SOLEMNITY OF MARY, MOTHER OF GOD Sitting in my car I said to was a long time before I could taken with Santa. The traffic Sunday, December 31, Vigil Mass: 6:00pm myself, “I am never doing this calm down enough to drive backed up for several blocks. The Holy Day Masses – Monday, January 1, 2018, 8:30am again. I HAVE NEVER BEEN home. On the way I kept think- commotion caused people within and 10:30am – Pray a rosary on this Holy Day for greater peace SO HUMILIATED.” ing, Was that a prediction? Or the building to come down to the in this world. A voice within the car said was that a command? I assumed lobby; word had gotten out that SAINT JAMES NEW YEAR’S DAY OF PRAYER to me, “YES YOU WILL, it was a command. Santa was in the neighborhood. Monday, January 1, 2018 BECAUSE IT PLEASES ME”. For forty-five years since, I When I got to visit my friend, 1:00-3:00pm Eucharistic Adoration in the Parish Center Chapel I was stunned out of my mind. have been Santa Claus. Not at the superintendent of the build- The voice continued, “You sat Cub Scout meetings, but on the ing, he was in tears. He said FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY God’s Holy Word Among Us - An opportunity to come forward, there in your red suit while I was streets of Manhattan, visiting my to me, “How can I thank you, reverence the Gospel book, and make or renew your commitment covered in my own blood. They clients during the holiday season. John? Last night I had a crisis of to love and pray with God’s Holy Word in the Scripture. said you’re not Santa Claus—and Last year, as I was taking the faith, and I told God that I didn’t Saturday, January 6 – Vigil Mass: 4:30pm you are not Santa Claus. But I Santa suit out of the closet, I believe in him anymore. He had Sunday, January 7 – 7:30am, 9:15am, 11:15am, and 6:00pm AM who I said I AM. They took heard the voice again. “Put on never done anything for me. And REMEMBERANCE FOR CHILDREN WHO HAVE DIED your hat and taunted you with it. the Crucified Christ!” then you showed up. I’ll never Saturday, January 13 – Vigil Mass: 4:30pm They took all my clothes. They I thought to myself, what a forget this.” Sunday, January 14 – 7:30am, 9:15am, 11:15am, and 6:00pm didn’t want your grab-bag gifts, knucklehead I had been all these Astonishing. Miraculous. All Masses and they didn’t want my gifts years. The suit had a symbolic I am looking forward to the will be dedi- either. I wanted to grant them meaning: red for the blood of coming season with anticipation cated to those eternal life. Christ, a hat instead of a crown of and some trepidation, but I will children who go again, as long as it pleases him. have gone “They pulled your beard and it thorns and various other compari- before us snapped back on its rubber band. sons. So when I put on the suit, I God knows what will happen. in faith. All Mine came out by the roots. was mindful of what it meant. I (John J. Flynn Consulting parents are “You will be Santa Claus put on the crucified Christ. Engineers, LLC, is a structural engi- encouraged again because it pleases me. The results were astonishing. neering company specializing in the to attend and Don’t you know you have been Miraculous. maintenance and repair of high-rise light a special given a grace? You have been When I got out of my car on buildings in Manhattan. Flynn is a candle. allowed to experience a small Fifth Avenue, the traffic came to member of St. John Parish in Darien.) n 26 December 2017 Advent/Christmas Seminarians give voice to spirit of Advent NORWALK—Two concerts celebrated the beginning of the Advent observance throughout the diocese. The seminarians of St. Joseph Seminary in Yonkers, N.Y., presented a beautiful program of Advent and Christmas music on December 2 at the Basilica of St. John the Evangelist in Stamford, while diocesan seminarians of St. John Fisher Seminary in Stamford presented Advent Lessons & Carols in a concert at St. Mary Parish in Norwalk. Hundreds turned out for the prayer, readings and musical programs to reflect the spirit of waiting and preparation that characterizes the Advent sea- pleting studies and discernment at Facebook reflection on the mean- Christmas will be celebrated on need for every Christian to seek son. Diocesan seminarians sang St. John Fisher in Stamford. ing of Advent: a Monday, this year’s celebra- a true spirit of perseverance in in both concerts because many Bishop Frank J. Caggiano “We begin a new year of tion of Advent will only be 21 doing the Lord’s work. There moved on to major seminary at set the tone for the beginning of grace with the start of the Advent days long—the shortest length are so many challenges in life St. Joseph in Yonkers after com- Advent in the diocese with this season. Given the fact that possible. For this reason, we that can easily distract us from must attend to its spiritual mean- doing what we know is neces- ing and challenge in an inten- sary to bear witness to Christ. tional way to avoid the rush of Perseverance is a gift that allows Christmas from distracting us and us to remain faithful, even in the losing the benefits that this great most challenging of times. season can give us. “Perhaps we can learn much “The heart of Advent is a from St. Augustine, who coun-

CHRISTMAS 2017 Sacrament of Penance Saint Theresa Thursday, December 21 ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 7:00-8:30pm The Mother Church of Trumbull Friday, December 22 7:30-8:00am, 4:00-5:15pm; 7:00-8:00pm Saturday, December 23 Rev. Brian P. Gannon, S.T.D., Pastor 3:00-4:15pm Rev. Carl McIntosh, Parochial Vicar Masses Dr. Carolina Flores, Director of Music Christmas Vigil celebration of the three comings seled the faithful to persevere Sunday, December 24 4:00pm, 6:00pm and 12:00 midnight of Christ into our lives. The cen- in their own time. He uses the Christmas Concert at 11:30pm tral spiritual focus is the need to image of ‘singing’ to encourage before Christmas Eve Mass spiritually prepare for the feast of them, and us, to keep on moving Christmas that commemorates forward. St. Augustine wrote: the birth of the Lord as Savior ‘So, then, my brothers, let us sing and Redeemer. Equally important now, not in order to enjoy a life is the need to ready our lives for of leisure, but in order to lighten the Second Coming of the Lord, our labors. You should sing as when Christ will return in glory wayfarers do—sing but continue and power to judge all creation your journey. Do not be lazy but sing to make your journey more Christmas Day at the end of time. Finally, each day we celebrate the coming of enjoyable. Sing, but keep going. Monday, December 25 7:30am, 10:00am and 12:00 noon Christ in his Body, Blood, Soul What do I mean by keep going? and Divinity, in the gift of the Keep on making progress… your New Year’s Eucharist. progress is in virtue, true faith Solemnity of Mary, The Holy Mother of God “As we pause to reflect upon and right living.’ Monday, January 1 5301 Main Street • Trumbull, Connecticut 06611-4195 “My Advent resolution is to 8:00am and 12:00 noon this past year of grace and pre- www.sttheresatrumbull.org pare ourselves to start the season learn how to sing better each of Advent, I am struck by the day!” n 27 December 2017 Advent/Christmas Bishop blesses Food Pantry NEWTOWN— Just before ing thanks. were excited to share about all Thanksgiving, Bishop Frank J. “Most importantly, it is the the blessings for which they are Caggiano paid a visit to St. Rose meal we share at the Eucharistic grateful. of Lima Parish and school to table, the presence of Jesus in his Bishop Caggiano’s visit to St. offer his thanks to students and body and blood, soul and divin- Rose then took him to the site of to the parish for housing the new ity, that gives us our greatest the groundbreaking for the new FAITH Food Pantry for the area. hope,” the bishop said. FAITH Food Pantry. On this The bishop’s day started with At the conclusion of Mass, very cold day, some of the older a visit to St. Rose School. His Sister Colleen Smith, ASCJ, students joined him for the out- open in the spring of 2018. visit centered on the celebration principal, shared with the bishop door dedication of the new food Msgr. Robert Weiss, pastor of of Mass, where he spoke to the the various service projects the pantry now under construction St. Rose, said that he was proud children about the importance students of St. Rose will be doing on the parish grounds. of his parishioners for stepping of gratitude and service and throughout the year, includ- “Unless the Lord builds the forward and agreeing to provide talked to them about the first ing visiting nursing homes and house, those who build it labor in a new home to the pantry, which Thanksgiving. bringing homemade lap blankets, vain. We are God’s co workers,” feeds many needy families in the The bishop told the children collecting for Morning Glory the bishop said in his blessing, greater Newtown area. that the historic moment of the breakfast program for the poor in giving thanks for the generosity of “This parish has a very first Thanksgiving teaches us “to Danbury and making sandwiches parishioners at St. Rose. strong social conscience,” Msgr. be mindful that everything we for the homeless. The pantry, founded in Weiss told those on hand for have is a gift from God, that it After Mass, Bishop Caggiano 1984, was housed at St. John the blessing. “This is consistent is important to come together and Dr. Steven Cheeseman, Episcopal Church until the with our mission as a parish to share our gifts, and that meal superintendent of schools, vis- church closed its doors last year. and with the recently completed times are sacred moments of giv- ited several classes. The children The new building is scheduled to Year of Mercy.” n 28 December 2017 Advent/Christmas Surprised by an Angel By AL DiGUIDO Each trip, another gentle smile.... am fine.” “Thank you so much for your She stands over the box and It was late afternoon on care and love,” I say. Then she begins unpacking several teddy Thanksgiving Saturday, just surprises me with her response, bears, showing them to me. She before the sun was to set on a “God told me to come here,” says the children will love these. more than hectic day. I didn’t the words so strong and with I nod saying, “You have no notice her at first, a middle aged great purpose. “God,” she said, idea.” black woman carrying four bags “TOLD me to come to this store Before our encounter, I had AL DiGUIDO OF WESTPORT, founder of Al’s Angels, in front of Saugatuck bursting through their Rite Aid with these toys!” never met this woman. I move Sweets in downtown Fairfield. plastic. What will you do with these towards her and say, “My dear, I The toy collection box in the toys? she asks. I speak of the chil- must ask, what is your name ?” front of the shop on 28 Reef Road dren in our care battling cancer, She smiles and reaches out her know why I haven’t been here them. On Saturday, I met one. had barely filled. Quietly amid the rare blood diseases and severe frail hand and says, “My name is before. All I know is that God Her name is Alexandra. flow of ice cream customers, she financial hardships. She smiles Alexandra.” Struck with emotion told me to come here today with (Al DiGuido, founder of Al’s came from the back and slowly once again... “NOW I under- suddenly I say, “My, my, mine… these gifts for children. It seemed Angels and owner of Saugatuck placed four toys in the box. stand.” she says. “NOW I know is Alexander.” pretty important to him. I am just Sweets, felt impelled to recount “Thank you,” I say, and she why God told me to come to this Alexandra says that she lives trying to do his will.” this emotional encounter over smiles gently, leaving the rear place. in the area and walks by our store She was gone an instant later. Thanksgiving weekend. Children entrance and then making a return Finding myself speechless, I on Reef Road all the time. “You There are angels among us... all suffering from cancer and other life- trip with several more dolls and thank her again. Is there anything have never come into our store trying to do God’s will. Most threatening illnesses enjoy the toys toys—each making their way ever I can do for you?” I say. That before today?” I ask. times, we don’t see them or know from this and other collection points so reverently to the box up front. gentle smile returns, “Oh, no. I She leaves me saying. “I don’t them. We are surrounded by and delivered by Al’s Angels.) n

Day Pitney is proud to support Fairfi eld County Catholic and the Diocese of Bridgeport

Wishing you a most happy and blessed Christmas and New Year

BOSTON CONNECTICUT FLORIDA NEW JERSEY NEW YORK WASHINGTON, DC | www.daypitney.com 29 December 2017 Thomas Merton Center Micalizzi’s puts the ‘icing’ on charitable giving BRIDGEPORT—Jay hosted their annual Christmas food item to be donated to the Piccirillo was born and raised party in their parking lot right Thomas Merton Center’s food in Bridgeport. His father Andy on Madison Avenue. Jay him- pantry. Jay himself then delivered ran Micalizzi’s Italian Ice on self played Santa, handing out the donation to Brian Jenkins Madison Avenue until he died at gifts to every child that visited. and Sabine Kuczo at the Thomas the early age of 38. The business Christmas movies and music Merton Center which is located was then taken over by Jay’s played in the background as on Madison Avenue just down mother, Lucille, who had to guests enjoyed complimen- the street from Micalizzi’s. learn everything on the spot. tary donuts and hot cocoa. According to Jay, “The This year, Micalizzi’s cel- Characters like Olaf and Mickey Thomas Merton Center is a vital ebrated it’s 40th Anniversary in Mouse wandered around greet- part of Bridgeport and helps those the heart of Bridgeport with Jay ing the kids and taking pictures. who need it the most.” Jay and running the show. The event was also an oppor- Sabine are old friends, as Sabine He is focused on broaden- tunity to give back to the com- is a “long time customer” of ing the company brand via munity where they are located. Micalizzi’s. But Jay and Brian social media and branching Since he was a young boy and a met for the very first time, a out through local area restau- student at the former St. Patrick relationship between the local rants, but his heart remains in CHRISTMAS GIVING­—Jay Piccirillo (center) owner of Micalizzi’s Italian Ice School, Jay remembers volun- business owner and soup kitchen Bridgeport. in Bridgeport, is thanked by Merton Center director Brian Jenkins and office teering at the Thomas Merton director that they both hope An example of this could manager Sabine Kuczo on a recent visit to the center, where he donated non- Center. This is why he decided will continue into the future to be seen the Saturday following perishable food items collected at a charitable event he sponsors. to ask everyone who attended the benefit the people of downtown Thanksgiving when Micalizzi’s event to bring a non-perishable Bridgeport. n 30 December 2017 St. Anrew Parish Presepio gives life to the birth of the Lord

By PAT HENNESSY the shepherds and kings, sheep, cows, donkeys, camels and other The pot steams. The fire figurines that surround the stable. flickers. Birds chirp in the trees, The wise men and their camels a steady stream of water pow- are described in the Gospel of ers the mill, a forester trims his Matthew (Matt 2:1-11). tree and a woman sets out fresh The presepio goes far beyond baked rolls as children watch that, portraying the everyday vil- with hungry eyes. This is a clas- lage life that continues, unaware sic Italian presepio, an elaborate and indifferent to the miracle in the parish garage. A trip to the Immaculate Conception. “Most of them have something nativity scene, brought to life their midst. The genius of a pre- woodlands near Guilford yielded Once it was completed, Msgr. similar at home,” he observed. “I at St. Andrew Church by Msgr. sepio is in the attention given to enough moss to conceal the Bernelli began taking the students want them to understand that the Matthew Bernelli. the ordinary people whose lives structure—no artificial turf here. at St. Andrew School, one class meaning of Christmas is here—in “I grew up with these all and occupations would surround He spent most of the first week at a time, to explore the detailed the birth of Jesus. Our life goes on, around me when I was a kid, Jesus as he grew up. in Advent arranging the scene, scenes while he explained the just like the life on display here, at home and in the church,” Msgr. Bernelli constructs his which was unveiled to parishio- importance and meaning of the but Jesus has come into our world. explained Msgr. Bernelli, who presepio so that the centerpiece ners on December 8, the feast of presepio. That’s what we celebrate.” n

was born in northern Italy. “I of the busy day is the stable with started collecting figurines when the Holy Family. In the scene at I was in the seminary in Mexico St. Andrew’s, these figurines are City. Little by little you learn larger than the rest and placed how to put them together, and it toward the front, a warm light changes every year.” emphasizing their importance. St. Francis of Assisi is credited Msgr. Bernelli has been mak- with creating the first live nativity ing versions of this elaborate scene in 1223 in order to bring nativity scene throughout the 53 home to parishioners the real- years of his priesthood. He served ity of the birth of Jesus. He was as parochial vicar at St. Raphael inspired by his own recent visit Parish in Bridgeport, St. Joseph to the Holy Land, where he had Parish in South Norwalk, and St. been shown Jesus’ traditional Ambrose Parish in Bridgeport. birthplace. Within a hundred He became pastor of St. Mary years every church in Italy was Parish in Bridgeport in 1980, expected to have a nativity scene retiring after 36 years. at Christmastime. The popular- Every place he went, he built ity of nativity scenes has spread a presepio, making it more or less throughout the world, though elaborate as space allowed. “St. few are as elaborate, or as well Andrew’s pastor, Father Gene known, as the Italian presepio. Szantyr, had seen it at St. Mary’s Nativity scenes, or crèches, and asked if I would set one up here in the United States will usually this Christmas,” he said. “In front have a stable with a manger (a of the altar, the way it is here, is feeding trough for cattle filled the best place. People can smell the with straw) where the homeless moss and hear the water flowing.” couple placed their newborn To fit the elaborate scene into baby (Luke 2:1-20). Mary and the space in front of the altar, Joseph kneel by the baby Jesus. Msgr. Bernelli spent a month Children, in particular, love forming the main platform in 31 December 2017 Advent/Christmas ‘Harvest Table’ feeds the poor

By BRIAN D. WALLACE Gutman said the funds will be purveyors,” he said. used to support NCC programs and Al Barber, chief executive STAMFORD—What a operations throughout the year. officer of Catholic Charities, spectacular Harvest Table! The “Our largest expenditures are which sponsors New Covenant HARVESTING FOR THE POOR—More than 300 friends of New Covenant seventh annual Harvest Table on nutritious fresh and frozen Center, said that all those who Center in Stamford turned out for the recent Harvest Table social event that raised over $110,000 for NCC, one of the state’s largest soup kitchens. fundraiser, held November 12 at food. Our food pantry monthly participated in the Harvest Table the Hyatt Regency Greenwich, shoppers have increased from event have made it possible to raised more than $110,000 for 400 to 1,200 in the two and a half reach out to the working poor, & Sarita Hanley, Ed & Gina through life coaching, job skills New Covenant Center, one of the years in our new facility, while we homeless and elderly throughout Kearns, Terry & Leslie Laughren, training, a computer lab, immi- largest soup kitchens in the state. are maintaining our goal of giving the year. Laure Aubuchon, Clive Correia, gration services and basic living “The event was a record- each individual 10 days of grocer- “We’re very grateful for the Darien Rowayton Bank, Hyatt needs such as haircuts and show- breaking financial success, and ies each month,” Gutman said. enthusiastic and sacrificial sup- Regency Greenwich, Odell Mays, ers. It is open 365 days per year topped last year’s attendance with “With thousands more people port of so many board members, Narragansett Brewing Company, from 10 am-6 pm, providing over 300 supporters,” said John in our Stamford area and sur- donors and volunteers. Their com- Pottery Barn, Holly & Dwayne three meals daily. It now operates Gutman, executive director. rounding communities not receiv- mitment is a particularly strong Richardson, Peter & Barbara one of the largest food pantries Harvest Table featured a silent ing enough food each month, we statement during the Thanksgiving Ripp, RMS Companies, Bob in the state and is the largest in auction offering 100 items, deli- have to purchase more refrigera- holiday,” Barber said. & Lisa Schultz, Hearst Media Stamford. cious varieties of hors d’oeuvres tion and freezer units, as well as The event was made possible Services, Moffly Media and (New Covenant Center is from their Marketplace vendors, renting off-site, climatized stor- through the generous support of Pepperidge Farm. located at 174 Richmond Hill Ave., and guest speaker Cecily Gans, age units to house the free and sponsors: Mike & Diane Boyd, In addition to serving well Stamford, CT 06902. For more infor- who spoke about “Fighting Food reduced donations we receive Bruce & Linda Koe, XL Catlin, over 600,000 meals a year, New mation, phone 203.964.8228 or visit Insecurity One Bite at a Time.” from various food banks and food Nils & Christine Dahl, Greg Covenant Center helps guests www.newcovenantcenter.org.) n

Our Sincerest wishes for a Blessed Christmas & a Healthy New Year. Catholic Cemeteries, Diocese of Bridgeport 32 December 2017 St. Jerome Parish Youth Group ‘Night in a Box’ NORWALK—On November 18 and 19, TOTAL, the youth group of St. Jerome Parish in Norwalk, participated in the fifth annual Night in a Box event. Night in a Box is a homeless awareness project that raises cardboard shelters—our beds for Sometimes we have to walk a little money and collects toiletries the night—in the parish hall. We in someone else’s shoes to really for the Open Door Shelter in took a moment to remember and appreciate how blessed we are. Norwalk. Thirty-nine teens pray for those who do not have Night in a Box has raised over spent the day serving others. We the option of moving inside dur- $10,000 and collected hundreds raked leaves for our parishioners, ing bad weather. of toiletries to help the Open planted tiny trees and brought We concluded our weekend Door Shelter. donations to the clothing shed with Mass. We learned to be (Please remember the Open Door at the shelter, helped around the grateful for what we have, to Shelter this Christmas season and church, and made Christmas dec- Genuario, a board member of service where we thought about know when we have enough and donate to help the homeless in our orations for the shelter. We filled the Open Door Shelter and long- how we could “Multiply Love” to be thankful that we have the neighborhood. Monetary donations, 60 leaf bags at one house alone! time St. Jerome parishioner, who based on the Gospel story of the choice to sleep inside. We also toiletries, new or gently used blankets, After the service projects, we told us how the shelter helps the Loaves and Fishes. Because the had a chance to express how sheets and towels can be dropped off ate a simple soup-kitchen supper homeless in Norwalk. We then weather forecast was not good grateful we are for our fami- at St. Jerome Parish or at the Open of chicken soup and grilled cheese took on the persona of a home- (last year the rain pounded our lies, warm homes, schools, our Door Shelter, 4 Merritt Street, South sandwiches and heard from Bob less person, followed by a prayer boxes to mush!) we set up our opportunities and our parents. Norwalk, CT 06854.) n

May the Peace & Joy of the Season Light Your Way Merry Christmas!

Returning home for the holiday? Winter registration is open for undergraduates until December 19th. Visit fairfield.edu/wintersession for more information. People’s United Insurance Agency wish you and your family a Happy and Healthy Holiday.

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By ELLEN McGINNESS homebound. The holiday gifts (To donate to the program, con- are delivered the next day by the tact Bob Donahue at 203.416.1331 For over fifteen years, the drivers of MoW. or [email protected].) n Garden Club of Darien has Why do the ladies take the put their creative floral talents time and effort to do this? Betsy to work by creating holiday Becker, co-chair with Tracy arrangements for the recipients Drippé of the Holiday Greens of Catholic Charities’ Meals Workshop, explained it this way: on Wheels of Lower Fairfield “As one of our major outreach County (MoW) program. initiatives of the year, it’s a gift As part of an annual project back to our community.” dubbed “The Holiday Greens A gift that’s as beautiful as a Workshop,” more than sixty partridge in a pear tree. busy elves with green thumbs get Catholic Charities Senior together in early December at the Nutrition Program (SNP) Darien Boy Scouts Cabin to put includes Meals on Wheels of together the cheery arrangements. Lower Fairfield County home The club assembles the green- delivery plus Community Café ery, tiny ornaments, shimmery BRINGING CHRISTMAS BEAUTY—Garden Club of Darien members (l-r) congregate meal sites for the wire ribbon and other festive Betsy Becker and Tracy Drippé deliver holiday arrangements for the recipients elderly. The Senior Nutrition “bling” to magically produce 300 of Catholic Charities’ Meals on Wheels of Lower Fairfield County program. Program serves over 400 meals a table top designs for the elderly day to clients.

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By ANNIE OVANESSIAN way to children in need around collection site. the world, and together with the “It was truly moving to see Students at St. Joseph School local church worldwide, to share our entire school community in Brookfield could barely con- the Good News of Jesus Christ. come together and pray over tain themselves as they bundled Since 1993, Operation Christmas these boxes,” said volunteer mom up boxes of toys for their friends. Child has collected and delivered Katiana Bonnefoy. Students in kindergarten more than 146 million gift-filled “The children sent through eighth grade paired with shoeboxes to children in more not only gifts, but their school buddies to fill over 65 than 150 countries and territories. the message of shoeboxes with gifts and necessi- For many of these children, the God’s Love. I’m ties. These boxes, however, were shoebox is the first gift they have so honored to have not for their school buddies, but ever received. been even a small for friends they may never meet In addition to gifts and neces- part of this service across the globe via a partnership sities, SJSB students also enclosed project!” with Operation Christmas Child, handwritten notes to their global The entire SJSB a project of Samaritan’s Purse, an buddies wishing them blessings community prays, as international Christian relief and for the coming season. Once all one student eloquent- evangelism organization headed the boxes were filled, students ly noted, “That the by Franklin Graham. gathered in the gymnasium and boxes arrive safely The mission of Operation prayed over the boxes and for the and the children Christmas Child is to demon- recipients before the boxes were receive the joy we are strate God’s love in a tangible loaded to be shipped to the local sending them.” n

PEOPLE’S UNITED BANK IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THE Fairfield County Catholic Wishing everyone a happy and healthy Holiday Season.

©2016 People’s United Bank, N.A. Member FDIC 35 December 2017 Advent/Christmas Epiphany of the Lord

By DR. FRANK DeSTEFANO “magi” in the East. The members Jerusalem precisely to discuss of the ruling priestly class of the this very issue. There St. Paul, Reading 1: Isaiah 60: 1-6 Persian Empire to the east of inspired by his own vision of the Reading II; Ephesians 3: 2-3a, 5-6 Palestine had for centuries been Lord, argued that the message Gospel: Matthew 2: 1-12 called “magi.” They would have of Christ was for all mankind. (Magi from the east) been familiar with the Hebrew As he says in the Letter to the Scriptures and prophecies Ephesians, Epiphany is a Greek word because so many Jews had emi- “It has now been revealed to which means manifestation or grated to Persia in the centuries his holy apostles and prophets by appearance. Traditionally, the before Christ. Their journey to the Spirit: that the gentiles are co- story of the “Magi from the east” Bethlehem would have been over heirs, members of the same body, has been seen as a sign of the a thousand miles, but it would and copartners in the promise in manifestation of the Lord to all have followed established and fre- Christ Jesus.” nations quently traveled trade routes. For Paul, the Messiah prom- Today’s first reading from The reaction of King Herod ised to the Jews was to be what the Prophet Isaiah, with its men- to their news certainly fits what Isaiah called “a light to all tion of caravans of camels and history has told us about that nations.” St. Peter, as observant a dromedaries bearing gold and cruel despot. In those days it was Jew as St. Paul, will have his own frankincense, has from the earli- common for rulers to kill anyone vision in which he sees that what est days of the Church been asso- who might be a potential threat God has created no man can call ciated with the story of the Three to their crown. Herod murdered unclean. Kings or Wise Men. The Gospel his favorite wife—he had ten— Perhaps it is only after this account from St. Matthew only and five of his own sons when he question had been decided that tells us that “Magi from the east” suspected that they were plotting the early Christians began to followed the star “to the place against him. The Slaughter of reexamine the words and life of where the child was.” It doesn’t the Innocents which St. Matthew Jesus for new meaning. He came say that there were three of them, describes a little later in this to call sinners. He cured the or that they were kings. But tradi- chapter is certainly in line with Roman centurion’s servant. The tion and art have added the famil- Herod’s character. Sermon on the Mount did not iar features to the story. What is the importance of mention race, creed, or color. He We have three kings probably the visit of the Magi? Why is the praised the Good Samaritan and because of the three gifts—gold, Feast of the Epiphany one of the insisted that the foreigner was frankincense, and myrrh—which greatest in the Church’s calendar? more a neighbor to the beaten are associated with royalty. In We know that even after the Jewish traveler than his country- art, one of the kings is usually Resurrection of our Lord, the first men who passed him by on the portrayed as an old man, another converts to Christianity—even road to Jericho. is middle aged, while the third the Apostles themselves—had dif- They even discovered, and is young and beardless. They ficulty in understanding that the preserved in Matthew’s Gospel, symbolize all the ages of man- mission of our Lord was not just an incident at the very beginning kind. Tradition called them wise to the Jews. There was a great of our Lord’s earthly life which men because the word “magi” debate in the early Church in indicated that he had come as a came to mean “magician,” or which some argued that Gentiles light to all the nations. The Magi one familiar with the secrets and had to convert to Judaism before had come from the East to bring mysteries of nature. It is com- they could be Christian. In St. him gifts and do him homage. mon to think of them as astrono- Paul’s epistles we see that this On the other hand, the despised mers or astrologers because of issue centered around the ques- ruler of the Jews had only sought the famous star that they fol- tion of circumcision, that par- to put him to death. Apparently, lowed to Bethlehem. ticular rite which signified one’s Herod and his advisers couldn’t twelve days of Christmas are on his way to Jerusalem. A few Although legends have embel- membership in the nation of even see the star that led the completed. Subsequently, we years ago I found a wonder- lished the story of the Magi, Israel. Magi to the child. will begin to follow Jesus as he ful Christmas card which said there is an historical core to In fact, the very first Council The Christmas season comes begins his public life. We will simply, their story. There were, after all, of the Church was held at to an end with Epiphany. The have a whole year to follow him “Wise men still seek him.” n