Saint Bridget of Sweden Parish Where Christ Is Our Light

Saint Bridget of Sweden Parish Where Christ is Our Light

February 16, 2020

lives. More information on the events and activities that we have planned will be in our bulletins in the weeks ahead, posted on our social media, and on our user-friendly website, www.stbridgetcheshire.org. Letter from the Pastor Here are some of the highlights of what we did as a parish family, which causes The Reverend Jeffrey V. Romans, KCHS for us to express our gratitude to God for His many blessings and pray for His continued guidance: 1. We began the year strengthening our presence on social media and utilizing the tools of today to effectively com- Dear Friends in Christ: Bishops, it says “parishes are communities municate the faith. 2019 Annual Report…This weekend I am of faith, of action, and of hope. They are 2. We welcomed to our parish family the pleased to present to you the 2019 Annual where the Gospel is proclaimed and cele- new Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdio- Report for Saint Bridget of Sweden Parish brated, where believers are formed and sent cese, Bishop Betancourt, who celebrat- and to provide you with a to renew the earth. Parishes are the ed Mass with our parish family and highlight booklet at the home of the Christian community; offered his blessing to those in attend- ends of your pews (or on they are the heart of our Church.” ance. the yellow table at Saint I am in awe when I reflect on how 3. We, once again, experienced the pain Thomas Becket) for you to our parish family is a family of and the disgust of the sexual abuse take home and read. I real- faith, of action, and of hope. As crisis as the Archdiocese released the ly do hope you will take the you look through the Annual Re- names of all those who were credibly time to read through one of port booklet you will see how this accused. A fulfillment of a promise these booklets as doing so is made evident in the many ways made to the people of God but one will help you to see how God is really at we come together. We come together for that, once again, caused us, priests and work in the midst of our parish family! spiritual and social events to strengthen our laity, to experience the pain of know- I will share some highlights with you at the family. We come together for various adult ing that this took place in our beloved Masses this weekend, but I would like to education programs, various ministry meet- Church. make a couple of significant comments at ings, and other times to grow together in 4. We saw the transfer of the beautiful this time as well. our faith. We come together to be formed Stations of the Cross from the Epipha- in the faith so that we can then bring that ny Church property to the front of St. I think it is safe to say that the calendar year faith into our world. We Grow and Go as of 2019 was a year of blessings for our par- Bridget School as a way of uniting us the theme for the as one family of faith; ish family in many different ways, some of Archdiocesan Synod which will be clear in the printed pages of respecting the histo- reminds us. We, as a ries of the former the Annual Report, others which are known parish family, are ac- only to God. parishes and building tively doing this each us up as one family As I reflect back on 2019, I am most grate- and every day in a of faith. ful to the Parish Trustees, the Parish Fi- multitude of ways! 5. We executed the sale nance Council, and the Parish Pastoral For that we give of the Epiphany Council for their extraordinary and invalua- thanks to God. Church and Property ble advice, counsel, and support. Whether We, as a Pastoral to Holy Theotokos and Saint Athana- it is in meetings, on conference calls, or just Team, are continual- sius Coptic Orthodox Church in May. after Mass on the weekend, the members ly seeking ways to bring our parish We wish them well in their new spiritu- of these councils are ever willing to assist in community together both socially and al home. We thank them for the making sure we remain a vibrant presence spiritually to grow together as a family. plaque in front of the outdoor statue of the Catholic faith in Cheshire. They are So many of the programs and events we of Mary recognizing the parishioners dedicated to their respective roles in helping offer throughout the year help each of us who worshipped there for 50 years. to build up our family of faith. to grow in our understanding of the faith We look forward to collaborating with A special word of gratitude to our Trustees, so that we may be nourished by word and them in 2020 and well beyond. Candy Nesbit and Mark Izzo, who were Sacrament to go into our world and renew 6. We said goodbye to Father Philip amazing in their availability and support the earth. Each of us fulfills this mis- O’Neill and wished him well on his throughout the process of selling the sion each and every day by the way we new journey with the US Air Force as Epiphany Church and property. I could live our lives, by the way our words and a Chaplain, and, we welcomed Father not have done it without them. I learned so our actions show others that God is pre- Anthony Federico as the new Parochial much from them throughout this process sent within us, and by the way we share Vicar of our parish family. We are and for that I am beyond grateful. The the joy and the love of Jesus with those blessed that our parish family gets the questions, the waiting, the back-and-forth we encounter. excitement, enthusiasm, and joy of of selling real estate is really not something To strengthen us for our role as mis- young holy priests in the early years of I was ordained for but with their guidance, sionary disciples I encourage everyone their ministry. support, and counsel we got through the to join us for our upcoming spiritual 7. We painted Saint Thomas Becket process. and social events in 2020 so that togeth- Church, carpeted both Churches and As I often quote at this time of year, in the er we can be strengthened by one an- the Education Wing at our South Cam- document Communities of Salt and Light by other and God’s Word to truly go forth pus, and repaired the masonry issues the United States Conference of Catholic and bring others to the Lord by our on Saint Bridget Church and our Par- ish Rectory.

8. We welcomed the Knights of Colum- possible for consideration. weeks of Lent. It will be an oppor- bus State Council and the Silver Rose Finally, I hope you will not only focus tunity for us as a family of faith to as we gathered to pray for a greater on the financial report but that you will reach out to others with the mercy and respect for all human life from concep- look through this Annual Report booklet love of God and to fulfill the call of tion to natural death. and see that we are doing so much as a Pope Francis to be instruments of mer- 9. We gathered to grow together as a fam- community of faith. We educate future cy in the lives of others. It is our hope ily at events like our awesome Parish generations, we gather in groups, we work that each weekend a basket will be in Picnic, the amazing Oktoberfest, and together to enhance our liturgies, and we front of the altar and at the time the the relaxing and enjoyable No Turkey reach out to those most in need. That is collectors are organizing the collection, Thanksgiving Parish Dinner. what makes us such a strong family of faith! our young people (and any “older” 10. We walked the path of re-accreditation May God bless our efforts in the years young person who wishes to come with our parish school throughout the ahead. Thank you for all that forward) will bring the particular item year culminating in you do to make Saint Bridget to the basket. These will occur as fol- the official on-site of Sweden Parish such an lows: visit with New Eng- amazing family of faith. Weekend of February 29 & March 1— land Association of Feed the Hungry—non-perishable food Schools and Colleges FINALLY, I wish to thank you the people of our parish items for the Cheshire Community in October. We also Food Pantry witnessed the extraor- family. I thank you for your dinary generosity of love and dedication to our Weekend of March 7 & 8—Give drink the John G. Martin parish family, for your great to the Thirsty—beverages (water, juice, Foundation with their generosity—especially financial coffee, etc.) for the Cheshire Commu- recent grant to St. Bridget School of generosity—which enables us nity Food Pantry $85,000 for us to purchase all NEW to offer the great variety of programs and Weekend of March 14 & 15—Clothe the Smartboards for each of our class- activities, and I thank you for your presence naked—new (WHITE) socks for the rooms. at Mass both daily and Sundays. We exist as Saint Vincent DePaul Shelter in Water- a parish family because of each of you. This bury or onesies for use at Carolyn’s There are many factors that are not re- past year has indeed been a year of blessings Place flected in our 2019 Annual Report that for us as a parish family and I am most con- define us as a parish family. Weekend of March 21 & 22—Shelter the fident that God is indeed at work in our Homeless—a monetary collection for the We are a family that reaches out to midst. God bless each of you and thank Saint Vincent DePaul Shelter in Water- those in need beyond our parish you for all you do for our parish family! bury boundaries, we collect tons of food, clothing, and other items for the clients LENT IS JUST AROUND THE COR- Weekend of March 28 & 29—Visit the of the Cheshire Community Food Pan- NER…Ash Wednesday is next week, Sick—children of the parish are asked try, the Saint Vincent DePaul Mission February 26th! As we prepare for the to make Easter cards to be given to in Waterbury, and countless other or- Holy Season of Lent I want to make you those in skilled nursing facilities or our ganizations throughout the Archdio- aware of a couple of things we will be homebound parishioners cese and beyond. doing this Lent. Weekend of April 4 & 5—Palm Sun- We are a parish family that has dedicat- 1. Ash Wednesday will be day—Visit the imprisoned—the chaplains ed parishioners ready and willing to a little different than in our prison ministry in the Archdio- lend a hand to any number of pro- years past. We usually cese ask that we collect Good News Bi- grams and events to make a difference just have Masses and ser- bles and Pocket Dictionaries for use in in the lives of their fellow parishioners vices and offer the distri- prison ministry…you can purchase and the less fortunate. bution of ashes during these at any retailer or on Amazon We are also a parish family blessed with those times. However, in Weekend of April 11 & 12—Easter the dedication of hundreds of volun- an effort to be more ac- Sunday—Bury the Dead—as we cele- teers who serve their fellow parishion- commodating of peo- brate the Resurrection of Jesus, we ers through various ministries here in ple’s schedules, IN ADDITION to remember our loved ones who have the parish. the Masses and Services that are sched- gone before us in faith. May they share in His Resurrection! We are blessed with a competent and, uled, we will be offering a special op- dare I say, extraordinary Pastoral Staff portunity for you to receive your ashes. I look forward to seeing all our parishioners, and support staff who are always ready From 10AM until 2PM, we will have and in particular our young people, involved to give one hundred and ten percent to someone in Saint Bridget Church avail- in this activity as we reflect on the im- anything and everything they do. I am able for the distribution of ashes. You portance of helping those in need among us. indebted to each of them for their are invited to come during this time. As always, remember to pray for our work each day in our parish family! Someone from the Knights of Colum- parish family and ask God’s blessings as we bus, the Men’s Club, the Women’s build His kingdom here. Please know that I I have said it before, but I say it again, Society, or the Greeter’s Ministry teams we want to hear from you! Is there a par- am praying for you, and I ask for your pray- will be at the doors of the Church to ers for me, that together through the inter- ticular ministry you would like the Pastoral welcome people, provide them with a Staff to work toward forming? Is there a cession of Saint Bridget of Sweden, our special prayer card, and invite them to Patroness, and united in the Eucharist, we particular devotion you would like to see us say a few prayers in quiet before ap- offer? Is there a particular topic you would will reflect the presence of Jesus to the proaching for their ashes. It is some- world. like covered in an evening Adult Education thing new. It is something out of the Talk? Let us know. Write it out and email ordinary. I hope it works! it to [email protected] or drop it in an envelope marked Pastoral Staff in 2. We will, once again, as a parish the collection on the weekend. All ideas are family focus on the Corporal Works of Mercy in a special way during the

SAINT BRIDGET OF SWEDEN PARISH—WHERE CHRIST IS OUR LIGHT SǕ. BǓǊǅǈǆǕ CǉǖǓǄǉ SǕ. Tǉǐǎǂǔ BǆǄǌǆǕ CǉǖǓǄǉ 175 Main Street, Cheshire, CT 435 North Brooksvale Road, Cheshire, CT The Reverend Jeffrey V. Romans, KCHS, Pastor The Reverend Anthony J. Federico, III, Parochial Vicar Pastoral Staff Mr. Paul Iadarola, Deacon ● Dr. Richard Wilber, Deacon Sister Patricia Cigrand, A.S.C.J., Pastoral Associate Mrs. Julia Atwood, Music Director Mrs. Donna Yatcko, Religious Education Director Mr. Regis O’Neill, Youth Minister Mrs. Marilú Rochefort, Saint Bridget School Interim Principal Ms. Margaret Sheehy, Associate Principal Mrs. Judith Rowinski, Saint Bridget School Assistant Principal Parish Trustees Mr. Mark Izzo ● Mrs. Candace Nesbit Parish Staff Mrs. Madelyn Banti, Admin Asst Mrs. Mary Beth Chamberlain, Admin Asst Miss Victoria Clarizio, Admin Asst for Comm Mr. Anthony Ginnetti, Sacristan Rectory888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888203R272R3531 Fax8888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888203R271R3356 Email8888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888[email protected] Bullen Submissions88888888888888888888888888888oﬃ[email protected] Social Media8888888888888888888888888communica[email protected] Mailing Address88888888888888888888888888175 Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410

MONDAY, 2/17 Adult Rosary, 6:30-8:00pm, St. Thomas Becket Church Support Group for Caregivers of Adults, 7-8pm, Father Frisbie Hall Our collection for the week of February 9th Living with Dementia, 7:00-8:30pm, St. Bridget of Sweden Weekly Offertory ...... $24,090.10 Parish Center (front) Online ...... $2,636.92 TUESDAY, 2/18 Fuel & Energy ...... $5,807.00 Walking with Purpose—Fearless & Free, 6:30-8:30pm, Thank you for your kind generosity! Father Frisbie Hall Please go to www.stbridgetcheshire.org WEDNESDAY, 2/19 to donate online. Bible Study—Acts of the Apostles, 10am-noon, Father Frisbie Hall Youth Group Meeting, 6:30-8:30pm, Father Frisbie Hall

THURSDAY, 2/20 Bingo, 7pm, St. Bridget of Sweden Parish Center Good Samaritan Ministry Meeting, 7-8pm, Father Frisbie Hall

FRIDAY, 2/21 Adoration, 1-4pm, St. Bridget Church Adoraon Schedule for Friday, February 21st St. Bridget School Auction, 6-11pm, AquaTurf

1R2pm T Claire Robitaille & Helen Tine SUNDAY, 2/23 2R3pm T Pat Casey & Maria Cersoli Men’s Over 30 Basketball, 7pm, St. Bridget School Gym 3R4pm T Joan Hayden & James McEvoy

Mass Intention Requested by Saturday, February 15th 9:00 a.m. SBC Austin Henry Scruton Mimi Weekday Masses 4:00 p.m. SBC George Barone Carolyn & Joe (All weekday Masses in St. Bridget Church) 5:00 p.m. STBC Vera Lupoli Daughter, Laura 7:00am Monday through Friday Sunday, February 16th: Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time 9:00am Monday, Wednesday, 7:30 a.m. SBC Catherine Banti The Banti Family Friday & Saturday 9:00 a.m. SBC Patricia RasmussenN Mike & Nancy Rasmussen Saturday Vigil Masses 9th Anniversary Family 4:00pm St. Bridget Church 10:00 a.m. STBC Helen Wempe Peg Irving 5:00pm St. Thomas Becket Church 11:00 a.m. SBC Maxine RiedingerN Hamilton & Riedinger Sunday Masses 12th Anniversary Families 7:30am St. Bridget Church 4:00 p.m. SBC Joanne Drago Family 9:00am St. Bridget Church Monday, February 17th 10:00am St. Thomas Becket Church 7:00 a.m. SBC In Living Prayer for 11:00am St. Bridget Church Christine Tarroza 4:00pm St. Bridget Church 9:00 a.m. SBC Joseph, Bob, & Harold Peter & Mary Mongillo (Sept 29 thru May 10) O’Connor Tuesday, February 18th 7:00 a.m. SBC The People of St. Bridget of Sweden Parish Wednesday, February 19th 7:00 a.m. SBC Catherine Banti The Banti Family 9:00 a.m. SBC Daniel Fusco The Higgins Family Thursday, February 20th 7:00 a.m. SBC Joseph Rittell Paul & Corinne Camerato Friday, February 21st 7:00 a.m. SBC Lewis D’Souza 9:00 a.m. SBC School MassNCharles SBS Family CONFESSIONS ARE HEARD Ramirez EVERY SATURDAY IN Saturday, February 22nd: The Chair of Saint Peter the Apostle ST. BRIDGET CHURCH 9:00 a.m. SBC Generosity of a Special The Amici & Borecki BEGINNING AT 3:00PM Organ Donor Family UNTIL HEARD. 4:00 p.m. SBC Virginia Beebe The Family COME EXPERIENCE 5:00 p.m. STBC Mary D’Amato Family THE MERCY OF GOD! Sunday, February 23rd: Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time 7:30 a.m. SBC Joanne Drago Family 9:00 a.m. SBC Michael Doherty His Family 10:00 a.m. STBC Mary Jane Milway Manny & Frances Storm 11:00 a.m. SBC Francis Minore The Romania Family Mass intentions and intentions for the 4:00 p.m. SBC Ron GuerreraNBirthday Victoria & Sue Guerrera Tabernacle candle can be reserved Remembrance by calling the rectory at 203-272-3531 or by stopping by the rectory during office hours, Monday-Friday, 8:30am- SBC=St. Bridget Church STBC=St. Thomas Becket Church 4:30pm. The offering for a Mass intention is $25 for Sunday Masses and $15 for daily Masses. The offering for the Tabernacle candle is $25.

The Tabernacle candle at St. Bridget Church The Tabernacle candle at St. Thomas Becket Church shines this week for shines this week for Irene & James McElory Robert & Dorris Wright Requested by Daughter Requested by Dr. Maria Stack

St. Bridget of Sweden Men’s Club Scholarship Every year the Men’s Club awards one $1,000.00 scholarship to a graduang high school senior who will connue their educaon at an instuon of higher learning. The applicant must be a member of St. Bridget of Swe- den Parish. Scholarship forms are available at the rectory or Cheshire High School Guidance Office. The applicaon must be returned to the rectory or Cheshire Guidance Office by March 13, 2020. 5 St. Bridget of Sweden Women’s Society Scholarship 8 H St. Bridget of Sweden Women’s Society is awarding two $1,500.00 scholar- 8 ships. Applicants must be parishioners of St. Bridget of Sweden Parish H ! 3 who are graduang from high school and are about to connue their educaon at an instuon of higher learning. The award is based on St. Brid- 8 get of Sweden Parish community service, a life that exemplifies Chrisan # 3 values, and an acceptable academic record. Applicaon forms are available at St. Bridget of Sweden Parish Office (MondayRFriday, 8:30amR 8 4:30pm), and at Cheshire High School Guidance Office or by emailing Joan at [email protected]. Students must submit the completed applicaon to the CHS guidance office or St. Bridget of Sweden Parish Office by $ 8$& March 13, 2020. [email protected].

Apologetics 101: Let’s Be Crystal Clear About This

What we o en hear: Crystals have healing powers and keeping them around can improve our mood and vibes. How we respond: Using crystals is an occult pracce which the devil wants people to embrace as part of harmless, ‘holisc’ wellness and selfRcare. There is nothing wrong with displaying crystals or other precious gems and appreciang their beauty. However, when we start to “use” crystals for their supposed psychic energy, one is crossing a very danger- ous line. Using crystals is a New Age pracce which is supersous and contrary to the teachings of the Church. There is no scienﬁc evidence that crystals have any healing powers. In fact, using crystals can have very, very harmful consequences. As one exorcist explains, many of his cases of demonic acvity have begun with people wearing crystals or using them for their supposed healing powers: ‘People think they are doing good for themselves but actually they are invoking evil powers. There is no such thing as good witches or white magic or healing crystals. If it doesn’t directly involve God, then the only other way is Satan and that’s not good…regardless of one’s intenons.’ T Msgr. Stephen Rosse As the Catechism teaches: “Consulng horoscopes, astrology, palm reading, interpretaon of omens and lots, and recourse to mediums all conceal a desire for power over me, history…They contradict the honor, respect, and loving fear that we owe to God alone.” (#2116) “All pracces of magic or sorcery, by which one aempts to tame occult powers, so as to place them at one’s service and have a supernatural power over others V even if this were for the sake of restoring their health V are grave- ly contrary to the virtue of religion.” (#2117) Informaon from these links was used in this Apologecs arcle: hps://bit.ly/2HjDIp1 and hps://bit.ly/2So3jUd

Are you looking to make lasting friendships with like The St. Bridget School HSA Presents minded people? Do you enjoy music but haven’t yet found the right outlet? Do you want to make Holy Family Eat Out Night Week more meaningful this year? Parishioners just Thursday, February 27th, 4pmR8pm like you have found choir to be an important part of their lives M a place where we connect with one other, Dino's Seafood share our love of music, and at the same time, enter 540 Washington Avenue, North Haven, CT 06473 more deeply into the mysteries of our faith. So why wait another year? Join our Combined Parish Come join other parish and school families and Holy Week Choir this year! This is the perfect oppor- enjoy dinner at Dino’s Seafood! tunity to try out the choir, because the liturgies are out- Dine in or takeRout. side of the normal, weekend schedule and because The restaurant will donate a poron of all the commitment is for a limited time period. The rehearsal and liturgy schedule is: proceeds back to our school. Thursday Rehearsals, beginning February 27, The owners of Dino’s are a SBoS parish family! from 7:008:30 p.m. in the Choir Loft of St. Bridget Church Holy Thursday, April 9, 7:00 p.m. M Mass of the Ask Father Lord’s Supper 6:00 p.m. rehearsal in the choir loft of St. Dear Father: During the various Eucharisc prayers, the Bridget Church celebrant prays for the local bishop and the Holy Father. Good Friday, April 10, 3:00 p.m. M Celebration of My queson is why can’t he pray for himself at that the Lord’s Passion me? It menons “all the clergy” but can’t he say some- 2:00 p.m. rehearsalMTraditional Choir at thing like “me, your priest” or even his name? St. Bridget Church Dear friend in Christ, 2:00 p.m. rehearsalMContemporary Choir Interesng queson. The words of the Eucharisc Pray- at St. Thomas Becket Church ers reveal that the priest only celebrates the Mass on Holy Saturday, April 11, 8:00 p.m. M Easter Vigil behalf of his bishop, who in turn, derives his authority 7:00 p.m. rehearsal in the choir loft of St. from Pope Francis. This is why only the local bishop and Bridget Church the Holy Father are menoned: the priest does not cele- Our music ministry is growing, and we are saving a brate the Sacraments with his own authority, but only seat for you! To join us, please contact Julia Atwood, the authority which has been given to him by his legi- Director of Music, at [email protected]. mate superiors. Have you ever heard a bishop say Mass in his own diocese? He says “with Francis our Pope and me, your un- worthy servant….” The reason he menons himself in the Eucharisc prayer in his own diocese is because he is the source of all sacramental authority in that diocese. A priest is not. I hope we can see how this queson reveals the nature of By the saving waters of Baptism, we authority in the Church; it’s not one of dominance but of welcome into our parish family: obedience. The priest is obedient to his bishop who is Palmer Evelyn Fidanza obedient to the Pope and all are obedient to Christ. Hailey Marie Trifone “Where the bishop is present, there is the Catholic Emerson Faith Weiss Church” T Saint Ignaus of Anoch; ﬁrst century AD

Interim Principal: Mrs. Marilú Rochefort St. Bridget School Associate Principal: Ms. Margaret Sheehy Asst. Principal of Student Life & Ministry: Update Mrs. Judy Rowinski

Congratulaons to Lila Kiernan for winning the Cheshire Lions Club Peace Poster contest!

Congratulaons to our Math Counts team for parcipang in the Yale Math Compeon!

Grade 7 students in Mr. Guererra’s History class playing board games they made. SCHOOL LIBRARIAN NEEDED! St. Bridget School is in need of a parttime Librarian. This position works with our PreKGrade 5 students, encouraging a love of reading and strengthening study skills. Current librarians, retired educators or individuals with a love for education are encouraged to apply. Please forward a letter of intent and resume to Mrs. Marilú Rochefort at [email protected].

Religious Education Schedule SundaysVSaint Bridget School Kindergarten through Sixth grade Due to President’s Day there are no classes on February 16th Classes resume on February 23rd Middle School, 7th and 8th grades Classes on February 23rd & March 8th Conﬁrmaon Program, 9th & 10th grades Classes on February 23rd & March 8th MondaysVSaint Bridget School First through Sixth grades Due to President’s Day there are no classes on February 17th Classes resume on February 24th TuesdaysVSaint Thomas Becket Campus First through Third grades Office of Religious Education Due to President’s Day there are no classes on February 18th Monday – Friday 8:30 am to 1:30 pm Classes resume on February 25th Donna Yatcko, DRE Fourth through Sixth grades [email protected] th Due to President’s Day there are no classes on February 18 203.272.6504 Classes resume on February 25th Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Tenth Grade Confirmation Candidates: Sunday, February 23rd, 11:00 AM Due to President’s Day there are no classes on February 16th Confirmation RetreatOMarch 15th, 27pm, St. Thomas Becket Church Tuesday, February 25th, 3:30 PM All service hours and Sponsor Due to President’s Day there are no classes on February 18th Certificates are now past due, Please submit as soon as possible.

Youth Ministry Regis O’Neill, Youth Minister [email protected] Verse of the Week Upcoming Events Jeremiah 29:11 We will meet this Wednesday, February 19th from 6:30-8:30pm in the Fr. Frisbie Hall at St. Thomas “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans Becket Church. All high schoolers are welcome! to give you hope and a future.’”

Saint of the Week Saint Gilbert of Sempringham Feast Day: February 16th Bio: St. Gilbert was born to a wealthy family in England in the year 1083. While his parents wanted him to fol- low in his father’s footsteps as a knight, Gilbert instead went to France to study for the priesthood. After his father’s death, he inherited many estates. While he was a parish priest in the town of Sempringham, some young women of the parish expressed a desire to enter religious life. Gilbert used his inherited fortune to build a religious house for them on the grounds of the parish, and the Gilbertine order was founded. They grew in number rapidly and started a custom where the best portion of each meal would be placed on the “Plate of the Lord Jesus” and shared with the poor. St. Gilbert lived simply, ate very little, and prayed devoutly every night. He died aged 100, and was canonized in 1202. St. Gilbert, pray for us!

9 Sister Patricia’s Corner

—————–————————————————————-—————————— Living With Demena: Middle Stage Caregiver ThreeRpart Series February 10, 17, and 24 from 7:00 T 8:30pm St. Bridget of Sweden Parish Center Presenter: Maria Tomase, South Central CT Regional Director of Altzheimer’s Associaon This program is designed to help caregivers understand and plan for SUPPORT GROUP FOR the changes that can occur in the middle stage of a progressive de- ADULT CAREGIVERS OF PARENTS mena. It will include eﬀecve care strategies, ways to connue to The Support Group for Adult Caregivers of Par- ents meets the third Monday of each month. connect, community resource opons and how caregivers can stay Our meetings give family caregivers the oppor- as healthy as possible. tunity to share and get good input for their February 10VPart 1: Symptoms of Middle Stage, caregiving. Communicaon, Relaonship Our next meeting is February 17, 78pm at Fa- Changes, Providing Personal Care, ther Frisbie Hall on the St. Thomas Becket Preparing for Hospitalizaon Church campus. For more information, contact February 17VPart 2: Behavior Changes, Medicaon the Rectory at 2032723531. Changes, Home Safety, Driving, Living Alone, Wandering February 24VPart 3: Day Services, InRHome Care Services, Senior Living Opons, Caregiver Needs We always have hard times in life. It is a PreRregistraon is requested to help plan for materials. For ques- blessing when there is a helping hand to assist ons or to register for one or more parts of this free educaon se- us. St. Bridget of Sweden is offering that help ries, call Sr. Patricia at 203R272R3531 ext. 1312 or eRmail: through our Good Samaritan Ministry. [email protected]. We will provide shortterm help by providing —————–————————————————————-—————————— meals to families who have a family member in the hospital or recuperating at home. If you or someone you know could use this help, please call the rectory at 2032723531. Your confidentiality will be respected. There will be a short meeting for volunteers interested in helping with this ministry on Thursday, February 20th, at 7:00pm in Father Frisbie Hall. If you cannot attend the meeting but would like to help, please fill out the form below and drop it in the collection basket or mail to the rectory at 175 Main St, Cheshire, CT 06410 A DON’T MISS DAY BUS TRIP VWednesday, April 22, 2020 To Newport Mansions: The Breakers, Rosecliﬀ, The Elms Good Samaritan Ministry Find out how the rich and famous livedV Volunteer Contact Info They outRdid Kim Kardashian! Name: You will get a guided tour of these exquisite Newport, Rhode Island Address: Mansions T THE BREAKERS, ROSECLIFF, THE ELMSRR and hear the history behind them. You will dine at The Mooring for lunch. This trip includes a Round Trip Motor Coach, a Tour Director, Lunch and Home Phone: all gratuies. Departs: 7:30 am from St. Bridget Church. Esmated return 6:45 pm. The cost is $126. To register or inquire call Cell Phone: Sr. Patricia at 203R272R3531 ext. 1312 or eRmail: [email protected] Email: TIME IS SHORT! REGISTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE!

Grand Knight, Ron Painchaud KNIGHTS KORNER [email protected]

As we approach the end of February, our Council starts to ramp up our 2020 K of C Scholarship program for parish High School and College students. During the calendar year, we held several fund raising events to raise funds for the scholarships, something our Council has done for over ten years. So you, our fellow parishioners who supported these efforts, have as much to do with awarding these scholarships as anyone. I want to emphasize that our Cheshire Council, not the National K of C, awards these to the students, so, while limited in the amount of dollars, we have no stipulation on how the awards are spent, just an understanding that it is for the student's educational expenses. Normally, one award is for a College or Collegebound student and one for High School or High Schoolbound. Last year was unusual in that two High Schoolers were the approved recipients; so with the available funds our Council voted to support an Archdiocesan Seminarian, a wonderful substitution in a lot of ways. We'll see what happens this year. Any student wishing to apply can simply request the application by email to [email protected] and one will be sent in a day or two. The applicant then gets a recommendation from Father Romans, Father Federico or Sister Patricia and completes an essay of 250 words or fewer on the topic "What My Catholic Faith Means to Me." The essays of all applicants (with names removed) are then submitted to a panel of Judges made up of Knights of the Council and the award recipients are notified by the end of July. Do you know a student of the Parish? Encourage him or or her to apply. Would you like to vote for the winners? Simple become a Knight . . . you'll be glad you did!

Cornhole Tournament ST. PATRICK’S / ST. JOSEPH’S DAY Hosted by the Men’s Club 2020 DINNER T DANCE Saturday, February 29 starting at 1 PM in the St. Bridget School Gym SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2019 The competition will include three different divisions: 6:30PM T 11:55PM Mixed Doubles, Adult & Youth, Open Division ST. BRIDGET OF SWEDEN PARISH CENTER The fee to sign up is $20 per team. Please join us for AN EVENING OF FELLOWSHIP, Registration is due by Thursday, February 27. dinner & dancing! See our website at All ST. Bridget of Sweden Parish members and friends hps://www.stbridgetcheshire.org/events are invited to this 21 & older event! for more information on the rules . TICKET PRICE OF $30 INCLUDES: Clip the form below to sign up. CHOICE OF TRADITIONAL CORNED BEEF OR CHICKEN DINNER What: CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT COFFEE & DESSERT SOFT DRINKS (BYOB) When: Saturday, February 29, 2020, 1pm DANCING TO THE MUSIC OF AWARDRWINNING DJ Where:St. Bridget School Gym KEITH ALAN Cost: $20 per team ST. PATRICK’S / ST. JOSEPH’S DAY Division: 2020 DINNER T DANCE Mixed Doubles! Adult/Youth! Open! Name: Phone Number: Team Members: Email: # Corned Beef Dinner # Chicken Dinner Contact Info: (In case of cancellation due to weather) Total payment $ Phone Number: Place form and payment in an envelope marked Email: “Dinner/Dance” and drop in the collection basket or bring to the parish office by Tuesday, March 10th.

Our U.S. Military Prayer List

Captain Cassandra Andrea USAF MA2 Tiana Lefebre, US Navy Captain J. Michael Andrea USAF Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian McGrath, US Navy SRA Garrett Barboza, USAF ENS Derek Molkenbuhr, US Navy Major David B. Beale, US Army LT Marisa Molkenbuhr, US Navy Specialist Alan Bell, US Army LTJG Trevor Molkenbuhr, US Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Betts, US Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer Pasquale Moreland, US Navy Lieutenant Kevin Briskin, US Army Corporal Ginamarie Mazzucco, USMC ENS Michelle Browning, US Navy Lance Corporal Kathryn Mazzucco, USMC Sergeant Brian Caouette Airman First Class Anthony Nero, USAF Captain Leslie Ann Capuano, USMC Lt. Christopher Nguyen, US Army Lieutenant Hollis Ann Capuano, US Navy Specialist Eric Normand, US Army Seaman Apprentice Robert Carrano, US Coast Guard Chaplain Philip O’Neill, USAF Private Jack Cavanaugh, US Army Captain Denis L. O’Reilly, USMC Tech Sergeant Edward J. Clark, Jr, USAF Specialist Christopher Paier, US Army Natl. Guard SRA Aaron Desjardins, USAF Private Matthew Planinshek, USMC Specialist John Fadus, US Army LTJG Jake Patrick Reid, US Navy STS-1 Jake Ford, US Navy Private Quianna Rios, US Army PFC Owen C. Fowler, USMC Petty Officer First Class Matthew J. Sansone, US Navy Private Dominic Anthony Giampietro, US Army Captain Ryan Satterfield, US Marine Corps Private Alyza Hernandez, USMC 1st Lt. Jack David Senft, US Army Petty Officer 2nd Class Martin Houston, US Navy SRA Myron Simpson, USAF Cdr. Thomas A. Ianucci, USN, Chaplain Private 1st Class Kevin Stevens, US Army SRA Ryan Jones, USAF Captain Alexander James Topitzer, US Army Petty Officer 3rd Class Neil P. Kenefick, US Navy Captain Matthew Neil Topitzer, US Army Ryan Kiernan, US Navy Captain Ryan Van Wie, US Army AWO2 Kyle (DeVylder) Kohl, US Navy Private 1st Class Connor Valinsky, US Army Lieutenant Jared Korn, US Coast Guard Senior Airman Joe Villano USAF Sergeant Gregory J. Kowalski, USMC Corporal Bernard Vitti, Jr., Marine Corps Airman First Class Benjamin M. LeClerc, USAF LCpl. Matthew Voelker, USMC Airman Mark Zajac, Jr., USAF If you have a name to place on our U.S. Military prayer list, please contact Mary Beth in the Rectory at 203-272-3531 or [email protected] with the names of family & friends who are on active duty. Please provide name and branch of service. In this way, our whole parish community can help bring them home safely by our prayers.

175 Sandbank Road, Cheshire, CT 2036999226 Thank you for your continued generosity with donations to the Cheshire THURSDAY EVENINGS Community Food Pantry. We gratefully accept any donations, but this Doors to the Parish Center open at 5:30 p.m. week we have a particular need for: BINGO begins at 7 p.m. canned fruit strawberry jelly applesauce in jars paper towels

If the jackpot for February 13th is not award- bars of soap Please note that the Food Pantry: ed, the jackpot for February 20th will be Cannot accept expired or opened items $250.00! Cannot use large industrial canned goods Can accept perishable goods only during Pantry hours The dinner special will be Hours are MWF 9:00am12:15pm; TTh 3:00pm6:15pm Pork Chops & Homemade Applesauce Monetary donations should be sent to: Cheshire Community If you are interested in volunteering, call Food Pantry, P.O. Box 457, Cheshire, CT 06410. Thank you for your continued support of the Cheshire Kathy Mahmood at 203-592-7677. Community Food Pantry and for helping our fellow neighbors!

Men’s Over 30 Thursday, February 27thSBS EatOut Night at Dino’s Basketball Seafood Sundays at 7pm Thursday, February 27thTheology on Tap in SBS Gym Saturday, February 29thCornhole Tournament March 7th & 8thScout Sunday Monday, March 9thWomen’s Society Soup & Salad with Speaker Friday, March 13thWomen’s Society Scholarship Applications Due Saturday, March 14thSt. Patrick/St. Joseph Dinner/ Dance Sunday, March 15thBedrolls for the Homeless (Plarning) Workshop Wednesday, March 25thPresentation for Parents on Bereavement Support Group Catholic Basics A 9week bereavement seminar will begin March 28th & 29thHoly Land Olivewood Carvings on Thursday, March 5, 2020. The group Sale will meet from 6:308:00 pm at Saint Brid- get School Library. The seminar provides Sunday, March 29thK of C Pancake Breakfast hope, healing and support for participants while they adapt to their loss. The group Tuesday, March 31stSBS EatOut Night at the Vic is guided by trained facilitators as partici- House pants journey from grief to healing. It is April 4th & 5thAnginette Sales based on the belief that sharing and talking about one’s thoughts, feelings and experi- Sunday, April 5thEaster Bunny Brunch and Egg ences in a safe situation with the support Hunt of others in similar situations, is one of the Monday, April 13thWomen’s Society Meeting most helpful ways to move beyond the with Speaker pain that is caused by the death of a loved one. Wednesday, April 22ndNewport Day Trip Registration is necessary. To register please call: Joan @ 2032712372 or Sr. Monday, April 27thSBS EatOut Night at Cheshire Patricia @2032723531 Ext. 1312 Pizza & Ale Monday, May 11thWomen’s Society Meeting Thursday, May 14thBourbon Tasting Fundraiser Visit our website at www.stbridgetcheshire.org for more details on any of these programs or events.

St Bridget of Sweden Parish will be celebrang SCOUT Sunday at all Masses on the weekend of March 7 & 8.All Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Girl Scoutsand Scout leaders are invited to serve as Greeters & Collectors and with Hospitality during the Coﬀee/And a er Mass. A Scout Sunday patch is available for sale. For further informaon, please contact Heather LaFrance ([email protected]) for the St. Bridget campus or Fiona D'souza (ﬁ[email protected]) for the St. Thomas Becket campus. You cansign up to help at hps://bit.ly/2OSATPV

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The Catholic Cemeteries Association of the Archdiocese of Hartford, Inc. Advanced Planning of your Cemetery needs is a loving gift that relieves your family of a difficult decision in the midst of their grief. Whether a Traditional Grave, Mausoleum, or Cremation, let our caring team of Family Service This Winter, Let Us Advisors help you choose your cemetery needs. During the month of February, 2020 get a Do the Cooking! 10% discount* on any Grave or Mausoleum Crypt Bring this ad for a for a free dessert cookie, Advanced Planning - The Gift that Lasts an Eternity brownie or blondie with any purchase over $10 Calvary Cemetery, Waterbury Mt Olivet Cemetery, Watertown St Francis Cemetery, Torrington 203-754-9105 860-274-4641 860-482-4670 203-974-2226 1410 Highland Ave. Cheshire CT St James Cemetery, Naugatuck St Peter Cemetery, Torrington Let us cook for your homebound loved one 203-754-9105 860-482-4670

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Ad info. 1-800-477-4574 • Publication Support 1-800-888-4574 • www.4lpi.com St. Bridget of Sweden, Cheshire, CT 03-1066 Strollo Bros. & Alexander Sons, INC. & Grenon REPAIRS & SALES chiropractic 24 Hour Emergency 203-271-0222 c e n t e r , P.C. strollostowing.com 1157 Highland Avenue • Suite 105 • Cheshire Dr. Jim Grenon • Dr. Dan Ruddy Repairs & Sales - 203-272-5384 We hope you’ll join us this summer www.hoynesfinancial.com • Rob Hoynes, ChFC® 203-272-4513 24 Hr. Emergency - 203-272-2112 Ages 4-15 • Open House April 28th 1-4pm Robert P. Hoynes offers securities and advisory services through SagePoint 420 South Main Street • Cheshire Financial, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance services offered through www.CheshireChiropractor.com 1525 Highland Ave., Cheshire holidayhilldaycamp.com Hoynes Financial Group which is not affiliated with SagePoint Financial

Full Service Garden Center & Florist Care When Karen Brimberg & Where Realtor® Open Year Round You Need It 203-640-4401 [email protected] 203-272-3228 RN’s, LPN’s & Home Health Aides Short/Long-Term Assignments • Specialty Services Indoor Plants • Gift Items • Landscape Plants • Trees • Tropicals 675 WEST JOHNSON AVE., CHESHIRE www.CheshireNursery.com • 1317 South Main St., Cheshire 203-250-1900 • allpointecare.com cheshire DR. THOMAS DeLUCA dental HORGAN ACADEMY DR. ANTHONY MARCIANO associates THIS SPACE IS Complete Family Dental Care OF Cosmetic, Restorative & Implant Dentistry DR. NATASHA CHOKSHI Prompt Emergency Service IRISH DANCE Jeffrey J. Bisson, D.M.D. • Dane B. Fletcher, D.M.D. 203-758-1885 Cheshire OPTOMETRISTS 482 South Main Street, Cheshire 203-272-2729 67 Waterbury Road Prospect, CT Providing Non-Medical In-Home Care (203) 758-4447 Light Housekeeping, Cooking, Errands, WASTE SYSTEMS Hands On Care, 24 Hour Care REFUSE & RECYCLING SERVICES www.eyedoctorct.com 203-272-1992 203-630-2881 • www.evertherecare.org WWW.AJWASTESYSTEMS.COM

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th 128 2018 practice of Ameriprise A full service travel agency Financial Services, Inc. for all your travel needs Keeping the Cheshire area 860.426.9950 Candy Nesbit 203-271-0623 warm for over 128 years. 100 Queen St. www.elitetravelct.com Southington, CT 06489 445 West Main Street • Cheshire sixpointwealthadvisors.com 203-248-2111 Serving victims/survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault www.easternfuel.com in the Greater Waterbury area since 1978 Domestic Violence Hotline Sexual Assault Hotline 3552 Whitney Avenue 203-575-0036 203-753-3613 Hamden, CT 06518 Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. 203-575-0388 www.safehavengw.org

WEDDING & BANQUET FACILITY 203-758-0096 mAriaBanquets.com The Wedding of your Dreams 45 Murphy Road, Prospect, CT Animal Medical WALLINGFORD Care of CT, llc FUNERAL HOME 203-439-2597 809 North Main St. Ext. (203) 269 7777 www.animalmedcare.com YALESVILLE 490 Cornwall Ave. Ste. 5, Cheshire, CT FUNERAL HOME Dr’s Kristine Matz • Marjorie O’Neill 386 Main St. • (203) 269 2222 Luke Martin www.wallingfordfh.com

Ad info. 1-800-477-4574 • Publication Support 1-800-888-4574 • www.4lpi.com St. Bridget of Sweden, Cheshire, CT 03-1066 G.C. ELECTRIC INC. McCormack Insurance Agency, Inc. Commercial • Industrial • Residential John McCormack 24 Hour Emergency Service PARISHIONER George Casner & Son ph: 203-720-0100 203-272-9521 fax: 203-723-7665 22 PARK PLACE, NAUGATUCK, CT 06770 Family owned and operated for 30 years. Robert & George Casner 135 Commerce Court, Cheshire www.mccormackinsurance.com Veterinary Imaging of Central CT Gerry Rock HIGH QUALITY • LOW COST REALTOR CT SCANS FOR YOUR PETS 203-640-4849 cell Fast Diagnostic Procedures [email protected] 203-758-6601 Parishioner 93 Waterbury Road, Prospect DAVID VOTTO, BSRT Manager - Parishioner 40 YEARS VETERINARY IMAGING EXPERIENCE

KITCHENS AND BATHS by Italian Restaurant and Pizza Specializing in: Pizza • Italian Cuisine • Catering A Matter of Style Proud to Serve St Bridget of Sweden Parish 529 West Main Street Ph: (203) 272-7297 • Fax: (203) 272-0309 203-272-1337 96 Railroad Avenue, Cheshire www.cheshirerossini.com 986 South Main Street • Cheshire CT 06410 203-272-2237 Ralph & Luigi Your Hosts www.amskitchens.com @amskitchens www.countrylumber.com Our New Chapel is open for services, along with Handicapped ACHIQ DESIGNS Accessible Comfort Rooms Fine Jewelry • Repair (860) 482-4456 Watch Batteries 82 Litchfield Street • Torrington 1081 SOUTH MAIN STREET, CHESHIRE www.cookfuneralhomect.com The Sally Bowman Group 203-250-9979 • ACHIQDESIGNS.COM Timothy M. Cook, Owner/Director Sally Bowman Broker Associate Saleem & 220 Old Towne Road Melanie Cheshire CT 06410 The Largest Chevy Dealer in 203-272-2828 Office Connecticut! 203-687-8026 Cell 877-691-9115 Email: [email protected] WWW.NELCONTOWING.COM 203-272-1000 thesallybowmangroup.bhhsneproperties.com Towing and Recovery • Auto & Truck Repairs and Service richardchevy.com

CUSTOM HOMES Additions • Commercial LITTLE ANGELS • Luxurious Accommodations Kitchens • Baths ELDERLY HOME CARE POLISH AGENCY • Home-Style Cooking Construction Providing Elderly Care • Companions • Medical Services on Site Group, Inc. Live-In Caregivers 203-272-4323 Stay Independent in Your Home! • Supportive Care Ricci 986 South Main Street Cheshire, CT 06410 Ewa Grzymala • 203-278-1436 • Assisted Living www.ricciconstructiongroup.com [email protected] • Affordable Rates

THE LAW OFFICES OF JOSEPH E. BOWMAN Call today for an appointment (203) 272-5291 • 315 Highland Avenue • Cheshire 203-272-2901 [email protected] • www.cheshireattorney.com Gracious Retirement Living in a Country Setting www.marbridgeweb.com

Your Neighborhood Automotive Shop Lube, Oil & Filter John J. Palmeri, CPA, LLM (For most cars) $ 95 (Synthetic oil 21 additional charge) Attorney at Law must present coupon at drop off Brake Service www.palmerilaw.com 203-272-5518 $ $ AutoRepairCheshire.com 50 OFF 20 OFF 203-699-9132 4 Wheel Service 2 Wheel Service [email protected] 1451 HIGHLAND AVENUE • CHESHIRE must present coupon at drop off Ad info. 1-800-477-4574 • Publication Support 1-800-888-4574 • www.4lpi.com St. Bridget of Sweden, Cheshire, CT 03-1066