four county catholic january 2011

Volume 23 Number 1 January 2011

As we welcome the new year,we are united by our respect for thevalue and incomparable dignity ofeach human being… and by the

great responsibility wehave towards others

Pope Benedict XVI

2 Four County Catholic January 2011

Established in 1989 and published each month except July.

PublisherMost Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. 860.887.9294Bishop of Norwich

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Inside Our DioceseBishop’s Column ....................................................................................3Vocations Corner ................................................................................5Calendar of Events ..............................................................................6Diocesan & Clergy Appointments ..............................................7The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe ........................................8el Banquete de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe....................9Brightest Christmas on Record....................................................Liturgy Notes ........................................................................................10Faith & Finances ..................................................................................11Corporal Works of Mercy andthe ‘Spirit’ of Christmas ................................................................12National Council of CatholicWomen Convention ..........................................................................13Knights of Columbus Receive Top Award ............................14St. Andrew Church Celebrates 150 Years ............................15Why Catholic? ......................................................................................16Amazing Food Pantry Opens in Middletown....................17In Tribute ................................................................................................17

Our FaithFinding God ..........................................................................................19Knights of Columbus DebutMichaelangelo Collection ..........................................................20Movie Review: “True Grit” ..............................................................21

Haiti UpdateOutreach to Haiti Unites Two Agencies ............................22Cholera and Earthquake DevastationCall for Greater Relief Efforts in Haiti ..............................23

Our YouthBenefit in Honor of Jes Egan ......................................................24Mercy Students Attend SADD Conference ........................24Twenty Something ............................................................................25A+ for America: Catholic Schools arean Added Value for the Nation ................................................26A Different Kind of School ........................................................28Family Page ..............................................................................................29

Our WorldBishop Cote Attends Consistory in RomeRecognizing Raymond Leo Cardinal Burke ......................30Chile: Love & Care Arrive; Anger Forced to Leave..........31

The Most Reverend

Michael R. Cote, D.D. Bishopof Norwich

Four County Catholic January 2011 3

My Dear Brothers and Sisters inChrist:It is my privilege as Bishop to

join you on many special occasions,large and small. I am always grate-ful to be with you whether at aparish celebration or a diocesanevent, especially when we may beassembled to honor or help ourchildren. Several weeks ago, I hadthe pleasure of having dinner withthree hundred friends of Catholiceducation at the first annual SetonScholarship Dinner, held at theMystic Aquarium and Institute forExploration.The purpose of the night was to

gather in support of our Catholicschools and to underscore ourcommitment to preserving andstrengthening Catholic educationhere in our Diocese. The fundsraised at the dinner will provide tu-ition assistance for a good numberof families wishing to send a childto a diocesan school. As I mentioned in my remarks

that evening, we are blessed as adiocese with the resources and thewill to restore the full promise ofour Catholic schools. Recently, theHoly Father, Pope Benedict XVI,reminded us that “All the work thechildren in Catholic schools do isplaced in the context of growing infriendship with God, and all thatflows from that friendship. Educa-tion is not and must never be con-sidered as purely utilitarian. It is

about forming the human person,equipping him or her to live life tothe full – in short, it is about im-parting wisdom. And true wisdomis inseparable from knowledge ofthe Creator.” This sentiment was well placed

in the aquarium venue chosen forthis occasion. The magnificent liv-ing, breathing, richly-colored envi-ronment of God’s wonders of thesea kept us mindful of a child’s cu-rious and creative mind. How ap-propriate, given the Catholicschool dedication to educating thewhole child. The Catholic schooladvantage is clearly the balance ofacademic excel-lence and devel-oping thestudent’s moralcharacter, self-confidence andfull potential.This is the tradi-tion we are de-termined toprotect and pre-serve.C e r t a i n l y,

there was nomore joyful ex-pression of a balanced Catholic ed-ucation than the music and voicesof the St. Bernard School entertain-ers with us that evening. At onepoint in the musical program, thepower went out – just as AsiaCarter was beginning to sing Ave

Maria. With remarkable poise, shecontinued to sing without a micro-phone and delivered a wonderfulperformance under her own power.These are the talented and capableyoung people who personify aCatholic education.

Superinten-dent of Schools,Dr. Jack Shinespoke of the fi-nancial chal-lenges facing ourschools and, of

course, all institutions at the mo-ment. Enrollment is down. Unem-ployment continues high, affectinga family’s capacity to pay for tu-ition. Costs of operation and en-ergy are at unprecedented levels.There have been some school clos-

ings. This is the reality in which wefind ourselves. However daunting,we choose to face the challengehead-on. For the past six months,an ad hoc Education Commissionhas been evaluating the situationand has recently presented its find-ings and recommendations to me.Among their suggestions was togather more support immediatelyand begin to turn the momentumin our favor. The Seton ScholarshipDinner was one of the first steps topull together champions of ourCatholic Schools. We are encour-aged and inspired by the show ofsupport.Further steps forward will in-

clude connecting more proactivelywith alumni to build on theCatholic Alumni Partnership pro-gram, working with the Connecti-cut Catholic Public AffairsConference to encourage pro-Catholic and private school legisla-tion, collaborating withparent/teacher advocates, recruitingbusiness partners to help with tech-nology provisions and other assis-tance, and sharing resources whenand where appropriate to optimizeefficiencies. These are some of theinitiatives we look forward to pur-suing. As you begin to hear of other op-

portunities to show support for ourschools and to join in programs tohelp the cause, please do so. Theacademic and spiritual stakes are so

very high. Catholic schools havebeen with us here in New Englandsince the 1880’s. Not quite thatlong ago, I attended and have thefondest memories of Notre DameSchool in Springvale, Maine. SisterCeleste of the Sisters of Saint Anneof Marlboro, MA was my secondgrade teacher. I remember how sur-prised and pleased I was to see heryears later at my installation asBishop of Norwich. The Catholicschool mission then and now re-mains “preparing the student forlife.” Sister Celeste helped me un-derstand what that means. I would say that we are starting

to get the hang of educating thewhole person – mind, body andspirit. At no time in our historyhave the qualities of good judg-ment, moral character, academicdiscipline, faith in God and respectfor Country been of more value.This is the time to stand togetherand see our way through a toughtime. I’m so delighted to have beena part of the Seton Scholarship cel-ebration and look forward to a ris-ing tide of prayers and support toensure our Catholic schools arehere and going strong for genera-tions to come. We can do this.Faith will light the way.

Sincerely yours in Christ’s love,

Bishop Michael R. Cote

When the Power Goes Out, Faith Will Light the Way

Queridos Hermanos y Hermanasen Cristo:Como Obispo, es un privilegio

para mí unirme a ustedes duranteocasiones especiales, ya seangrandes o pequeñas. Siempre estoyagradecido de estar con ustedes du-rante una celebración en una de lasparroquias o durante un eventodiocesano, especialmente cuando

nos reunimos para honrar o ayudara nuestros niños. Hacen varias se-manas atrás, tuve el placer de cenarcon trescientos amigos de la edu-cación Católica en la primera Cenaanual de Beca Seton, celebrada enel Acuario e Instituto de Explo-ración de Mystic. El propósito de reunirnos esa

noche fue para apoyar a nuestras es-

cuelas Católicas y para dar énfasis anuestro compromiso de preservar yfortalecer la educación Católicaaquí en nuestra Diócesis. Los fon-dos recaudados por medio de esacena proporcionarán ayuda decuota escolar para un buen númerode familias que deseen enviar a suhijo a una escuela diocesana.Según mencioné en mis comen-

tarios esa noche, como diócesissomos bendecidos con los recursosy la voluntad para restaurar lapromesa de nuestras escuelasCatólicas. Recientemente, el SantoPadre, Papa Benedicto XVI, nosrecordó que “Todo el trabajo quelos niños hacen en las escuelasCatólicas es puesto en el contextode el desarrollo de la amistad con

Dios, y de todo lo que fluye de esaamistad. La educación no es ynunca debe ser considerada sola-mente como algo utilitario. Es paradar forma al humano como per-sona, equipándoles para vivir lavida al máximo – en resumen, espara impartir sabiduría. Y la ver-

Cuando se va laElectricidad Cont. on page 4

Asia Carter, St. Bernard School

Cuando se va la Electricidad, la fe Ilumina el Camino

Sabrina Brown,St. Bernard School

Photos byPhil Twomey


dadera sabiduría es parte de nuestroconocimiento del Creador.”Este sentimiento fue bien es-

tablecido en el local elegido paraesta ocasión. La magnificencia delas maravillas de las criaturasvivientes y de multi-colores del marde Dios nos mantuvo conscientesde la curiosidad y creatividad de lamente de un niño. Cuan apropi-ado, dada la dedicación de la es-cuela Católica a educar al niño ensu totalidad. La ventaja de la es-cuela Católica es claramente el bal-ance de la excelencia académica y eldesarrollo del carácter moral del es-tudiante y la confianza en el poten-cial de sí mismo. Esta es la tradiciónque estamos determinados a prote-ger y preservar.Ciertamente, la más alegre ex-

presión de una educación Católicabalanceada lo fue la música y lasvoces de los entretenedores de laEscuela de San Bernardo quienesestuvieron con nosotros esa noche.A un punto durante el programamusical, se fue la electricidad – pre-cisamente cuando Asia Carter,

comenzaba a cantar el Ave María.Con notable compostura, ella con-tinuó cantando sin micrófono y en-trego una maravillosainterpretación bajo su propio es-fuerzo. Ésta es la gente joven capazy talentosa que personifica la edu-cación Católica.El superintendente de Escuelas,

Dr. Jack Shine habló de los desafíosfinancieros que enfrentan nuestrasescuelas, al igual que todas las insti-tuciones en este momento. La in-scripción ha bajado. El desempleosigue alto, lo cual afecta la capaci-dad de la fa-milia parapoder pagar lacuota escolar.Los costos deoperación y en-ergía están aniveles sinprecedentes. Al-gunas escuelas han cerrado. Esta esla realidad en la que nos encon-tramos. Aunque es desalentador,hemos escogido darle el frente aldesafío. Durante los pasados seis

meses, una Comisión de Edu-cación ha estado evaluando lasituación y recientemente me hapresentado sus conclusiones y re-comendaciones. Una de sus sug-erencias es el buscar más apoyoinmediato y comenzar a girar el ím-petu a nuestro favor. La Cena deBeca Seton fue uno de los primerospasos para reunir a los campeonesde nuestras Escuelas Católicas. Nossentimos animados e inspiradospor la demostración de apoyo. Pasos adicionales incluirán el

conectarnos más activamente congraduandos conel propósito deañadir al pro-grama de Afil-iación deGraduandosCatólicos, tra-bajando enconjunto con la

Conferencia Pública de AsuntosCatólicos de Connecticut para an-imar la legislación a favor de las es-cuelas católicas y privadas,colaborando con defensores de

padre/profesor, reclutando sociosde negocios para ayudar con provi-siones de tecnología y otras asisten-cias y para compartir recursoscuando y donde sea apropiado paraeficiencia optima. Éstas son algunasde las iniciativas que con anheloañoramos.Cuando escuche de oportu-

nidades y programas para apoyar yayudar a nuestras escuelas, porfavor participe de ellos. Los riesgosacadémicos y espirituales son altos.Las escuelas católicas han estadocon nosotros aquí en NuevaInglaterra desde los años 1880.Tengo gratos recuerdos de la visitaque hice recientemente a la Escuelade Notre Dame en Springvale,Maine. La hermana Celeste de lasHermanas Ursulinas de SantaAnna fue mi profesora de segundogrado. Recuerdo lo sorprendió ycontento que me sentí al verla du-rante mi instalación como elObispo de Norwich. La misión es-colar Católica en ese entonces yahora sigue siendo “preparando alestudiante para la vida.” La her-

mana Celeste me ayudó a entenderlo que esto significa.Yo diría que estamos comen-

zando a entender lo que significa laeducación de la persona en su to-talidad – mente, cuerpo y espíritu.Nunca antes en nuestra historia lascualidades del buen juicio, caráctermoral, disciplina académica, fe enDios y respeto por el País han sidode más valor. Este es el momentopara ponernos de pie juntos y vernuestro camino en medio de tiem-pos difíciles. Estoy encantado dehaber tomado parte de la cele-bración de Beca Seton y conmucha ilusión espero el momentode la alta marea de oraciones y deapoyo para asegurar que nuestrasescuelas Católicas están aquí y con-tinuaran fuertes para las genera-ciones por venir. Podemos hacerlo.La fe ilumina el camino.

Atentamente en el amor de Cristo,

Obispo Michael R. CoteTraducido por Rebecca McDougal

Cuando se va la Electricidad Continued from page 3

RetreatsDay’s of RecollectionFebruary 2Feast of the Presentation of the Lord“Presenting our Lives to God” with Fr. Frank Sutman, OP

Weekend RetreatsFebruary 11-13“Partners in Faith and Family”Married Couples WeekendListen to each other, prayer with each other.

Directed RetreatsFebruary 20-26Silent Directed Retreat with Sr. Eugenia Brady, SJCElijah did not hear the Lord in the Storms and the Fury,but in the quiet of the slightest breeze. Break away fromthe bustle of your daily life and draw closer to God dur-ing a week of prayer, reflection, and the peace-filled set-ting of Enders Island.

ST. EDMUND’S RETREAT

For further information call:

860.536.0565Or visit www.endersisland.com

St. Edmund’s at Enders Island

St. Michael’sInstitute ofSacred HeartJoin us while we explore thehistory, the sacrednature, and the techniques ofthe Sacred Arts in aprayerful manor.

February 13-19Icon Writing in theRussian Style This introductory classoffers lec-ture, theory,theologicaldiscussionand time towrite a com-plete icon.

Nunca antes en nuestrahistoria las cualidadesdel buen juicio, carácter

moral, disciplinaacadémica, fe en Dios yrespeto por el País hansido de más valor.

Vocations Director

Reverend Gregory Galvin


The Catholic Church in theUnited States will celebrate Na-tional Vocation Awareness Week,January 9-15.The week begins on the

Church’s celebration of the Feastof the Baptism of the Lord, whichfalls on January 9 in 2011.Thefeast marks the beginning ofJesus’s public ministry.Vocations week celebrates voca-

tions to the priesthood, diaconateor consecrated life. During thesedays, families and the parish com-munity are urged to nurture thefaith of their children to preparethem to respond to whateverGod’s call is for them.“National Vocation Awareness

Week gives parishes across thecountry a chance to promote vo-cations through prayer and edu-cation,” said Archbishop RobertCarlson of St. Louis, chairman ofthe Committee on Clergy, Con-secrated Life and Vocations of theUnited States Conference ofCatholic Bishops (USCCB). “It is

our responsibility to encourageyoung people to be generous asthey discern the possibility of acall to service in the Church. Par-ents, families and parish commu-nities must be involved in thiswork, since vocations recruitmentis everyone’s responsibility. Allneed to foster a culture of voca-tions.”Father Shawn McKnight, exec-

utive director of the USCCB Sec-retariat of Clergy, ConsecratedLife, and Vocations (CCLV),noted the many voices that cancommunicate God’s call.“Just as Jesus needed to hear

with his human ears the voice ofthe Father, so our young peopleneed to hear words of encourage-ment from parents, other familymembers, friends and the parish.God’s call comes through theChurch in this way.”To support efforts during Voca-

tions week, a special prayer cardand suggested prayers, are avail-able from the USCCB vocations

website: ForYourVocation.org orPorTuVocacion.org.“One reason some young peo-

ple do not consider a call to thepriesthood or consecrated life isthe fact that they were neverasked,” said Sister Mary JoannaRuhland, RSM, Associate Direc-

tor of CCLV. “There are manyways to help young people see thebeauty and joy of these vocations.Catechists are in a key position todo so. Materials to assist them canalso be found on the USCCBwebsite.”

The observance of National

Vocation Awareness Week(NVAW) began in 1976 when theNational Conference of CatholicBishops designated the 28th Sun-day of the year as the beginning ofNVAW. In 1997, this celebrationwas moved to coincide with theFeast of the Baptism of the Lord.

Holy Hour for VocationsThe Holy Hour for Vocations will now be held in a different dean-ery and parishes each month. Bishop Cote will lead the prayers of

the Holy Hour each month. The schedule is as follows:

Jan. 20, 2011 Saints Peter & Paul, Norwich 4-5pmFeb. 17, 2011 Holy Family Church, Hebron 4-5pmMarch 24, 2011 Saint Mary Church, Putnam 7-8pm

National Vocation Awareness Week to be Celebrated January 9-15A week to urge young people to think of priesthood and religious life

Some White Collar Jobs Are More Challenging Than Others

You have been thinking about it. Let’s talk...

Father Greg Galvin860-887-9294www.God-Calls.org

Office of Vocations • Diocese of Norwich, CT • [email protected]

The Baptism of the LordJanuary 9, 2010

Almighty, eternal God, when the Spirit descendedupon Jesus at His baptism in the Jordan,You revealed Him as Yourown beloved Son.Keep us, Your children bornof water and the Spirit,faithful to our calling. Weask this through our LordJesus Christ, Your Son, wholives and reigns with Youand the Holy Spirit, oneGod forever and ever.


Saturday, January 15, 2010An Encounter with the Bible:Lectio DivinaDo you want to learn how topray with Scripture? Do youwant greater intimacy in yourconversations with God? Do youwant to discover God’s will foryour life? Do you want to liveout the Gospel message and beauthentically happy? Then LectioDivina is for you. Come andlearn this ancient practice ofpraying with Scripture. January15, 2010, 8:30am-4:00pm, OurLady of Perpetual Help Church,Oakdale. $20.00 per person;lunch included. For more infor-mation contact Marge Vanner, atthe Office of Faith Formation, at860-848-2247. E-mail:[email protected]

Saturday, January 15, 2011Natural FamilyPlanning ClassesMarried and engaged couples:Natural Family Planning (NFP)is scientifically sound and en-hances communication and inti-macy. NFP (theSympto-Thermal Method) is eas-ily learned, 98-99% effective andin union with the Church andGod’s plan for marriage. NFPcan be used with doctors if youare having fertility problems. Nodangerous chemicals, hormones,side-effects or synthetic birthcontrol pills. Natural FamilyPlanning can change your heartin surprising ways! Three-Partclass begins on January 15, 2011at 2:00pm at Our Lady of Lour-des, Gales Ferry, for information

call The Schantz’s at 860-536-1871. Three-Part class begins onFebruary 21, 2011 at 7:00pm atSt. John’s in Old Saybrook; forinformation call The Collison’s at860-399-8265. Website:www.ccli.org for information orto register for a class. HomeStudy NFP course also availablefrom CCLI. For info: SueWilliams, Office of Family Life:860-889-8346 ext. 283.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011Prayer, Praise, Worshipand AdorationWill be held at7:30 p.m. at heSpiritual Renewal Center, 11Bath St., Norwich. For informa-tion call Judith Hughes, at 860-887-0702.

Sun.-Mon. January 23-24 2011March for LifeStand up for your for faith and itwill change your world! Join usfor an exciting and faith-filledtwo days. We will travel by coachbus to Woodbridge, VA and at-tend Life is very good, anevening for teens celebrating lifein prayer & song. Accommoda-tions are quad occupancy at theCourtyard Marriott in Wood-bridge. On Monday, January 24,2011 we will go to D.C., partici-pate in the March and returnhome late evening. For detailscontact: Jill Patten at (860) 460-3947.

Sunday January 23, 2011Prayer, Praise, Worship,Adoration & BenedictionWill be held at 7:00 pm. at St.Mary Church, Coventry. For in-formation call Judith Hughes, at860-887-0702.

Sun-Mon, January 23-24, 2011March for Life Trip forHigh School StudentsJoin us for an exciting and faith-filled two day as we experience allthat the D.C. area has to offer forteens attending the March forLife. We will travel by coach busto Woodbridge, VA and attendLife is VERY good, an evening

for teens celebrating life in prayer& song. Accommodations arequad occupancy at the CourtyardMarriott in Woodbridge. OnMonday, 1/24, we will attend theYouth Rally and Mass for Life atthe D.C. Armory, participate inthe March and return home lateevening. The cost is $100 forteens and chaperones. For detailscontact: Jill Patten at (860) 460-3947. Please call Jill to register byMonday, January 17th.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011Prayer, Praise, Worshipand AdorationWill be held at 7:00pm at theSpiritual Renewal Center, 11Bath St., Norwich. For informa-tion call Judith Hughes, at 860-887-0702.

Sunday, January 30, 2011Family Character BreakfastSacred Heart School will be host-ing a hearty breakfast while din-ing with your favorite charactersfrom popular literature. Enjoygreat food, games, music and

more. Fun for all ages! All pro-ceeds to go to The R.I.S.E.N.Learning Resource Center of Sa-cred Heart School Promoting In-clusive Catholic Education forchildren with special learningneeds and gifts. Breakfast runsfrom 9:00am – 12:30pm.

Friday & Saturday,February 11&12, 2011Are you a male from 30 -50?Have you considered a priestlyvocation? The Blessed JohnXXIII National Seminary invitessingle men from around NewEngland who are considering apriestly vocation to visit theircampus. Cardinal Sean O’Malleywill be among the presenters dur-ing the two day visit which willalso include the opportunity tomeet other men like themselves,participate in the liturgical life,and attend saturday classes andconverse with the faculty. Formore information speak withyour pastor or contact the voca-tion office of the diocese at 860-887-9294.

There will be two events to acknowledge the 38th anniversary ofthe Roe vs Wade Supreme Court decision legalizing Abortionthroughout the United States. There will be two separate events toprayerfully acknowledge this serious disregard for the sanctity ofHuman Life:

Pro-Life MassOn Saturday evening, January 22, 2011 at 7:00 P.M., there willbe a solemn Mass at the Cathedral of St. Patrick. Rev. Msgr.Robert L. Brown, Chancellor, will be the Principal Celebrantand Homilist. The theme will be: “The Measure of Love is toLove Without Measure.’

March for LifeBuses to Washington

Pro-Life rally at the Nation’s Capitol on Sunday, January 23,2011 at 9:00 P.M., buses will leave from the Norwich MunicipalParking Lot (Exit 80, I-395) and travel to D.C. for the MarchFor Life on January 24, 2011. The first stop in Washington willbe at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Bus fare is $58.

For further information and/or to reservea seat or to sponsor a seat,

please call Margaret Becotteat 860-822-1362.

A Celebrationof Consecrated Life

Sunday, February 6, 2011Cathedral of St. Patrick,

213 Broadway, Norwich CT

This day will begin with registration in thevestibule of the Cathedral at 1:30 p.m.,followed by the celebration of Mass at

2:00 p.m. Homilist is MostReverend Joseph N. Perry, AuxiliaryBishop of Chicago. A catered dinner

will be served at 3:30 p.m.

The Planning Committee for this observance hasselected the theme, “United in Service: Call to Love.”It is the Committee’s hope to have exhibits of com-munity services or outreach provided by students insome of our schools. All men and women who aremembers of institutes of consecrated life and soci-

eties of apostolic life are invited to attend.


NORWICH DIOCESANCEMETERY CORPORATION

815 Boswell Ave, Norwich CT 06360860-887-1019

ST. MARY & ST. JOSEPH CEMETERYCommunity Mausoleum Available

815 Boswell Ave, Norwich • 860-887-1019

SACRED HEART CEMETERYHarland Road, Taftville • 860-887-1019

ST. PATRICK CEMETERYDepot Road, Uncasville • 860-887-1019

ST. MARY CEMETERYCommunity Mausoleum Available

600 Je�erson Ave, New London • 860-443-3465

RESURRECTION CEMETERYRoute 145, Westbrook • 860-399-6503

SACRED HEART CEMETERYWauregan Road, Wauregan • 860-887-1019

ALL HALLOWS CEMETERYGreen Hallow Road, Moosup • 860-887-1019

�e Church, through it funeral rites:• Celebrates the life and faith of the deceased• Expresses the Church’s belief in the

Communion of Saints• Recognizes the spiritual bond that exists

between the living and the dead• Brings hope and consolation to the bereaved• Reminds faithful to turn to God in time of need and crisis• Seeks God’s mercy and love• Nourishes the faith of the bereaved• Acknowledges that deceased bene�t from our prayers

The Most Reverend Michael R Cote, D.D., Bishopof Norwich, has made the following appointments:

Clergy AppointmentsReverend Michael Smith, Chairman of the Continu-ing Education and Formation Commission for theClergy, while continuing as Pastor of Church of the HolyFamily, Hebron. Effective: December 10, 2010.

Reverend Kevin Reilly, from Secretary to the Bishop,to Pastor, Saint Patrick Parish, Mystic, and Part-timeChaplain at Saint Bernard School in Uncasville. Effec-tive: January 10, 2011.

Diocesan AppointmentsMs. Kyn Tolson, Director of Development for the Dio-cese of Norwich, Outreach to Haiti, Inc. Effective: Jan-uary 4, 2011.

Mr. Dennis Petruzzi, Interim Director for the Dioceseof Norwich, Outreach to Haiti, Inc. Effective: January4, 2011.

Reverend Brian Romanowski, from Pastor, SaintPatrick Parish, Mystic, to the Tribunal of the Diocese ofNorwich, Auditor, with Residence at Our Lady of theLakes Parish, Oakdale. Effective: January 10, 2011.

~ Monsignor Robert L. Brown, Chancellor ~

Philip M. Sloan, Jr.16 High Street • Westerly, RI 02891

[email protected]

Attorney at Law Licensed in RI


NORWICH - In 1531, theBlessed Mother appeared to apeasant named Juan Diego in

the Mexican countryside, pro-claiming Christ’s message inAmerica, particularly His em-brace of the poor.And every December, the cel-

ebration of the feast day of OurLady of Guadalupe is one of themost festive events in the Dio-cese of Norwich.Hundreds gathered in Nor-

wich at the Cathedral of SaintPatrick on Dec. 12 to mark the16th annual celebration with abilingual Mass celebrated by theMost Rev. Michael R. Cote,D.D., Bishop of Norwich. Thechurch was adorned inside withroses and red, white and greenstreamers representing the Mex-

ican flag. Several children andyoung adults wore period Mexi-can outfits, and the hymns wereplayed by the band Mariachi In-ternacional (STET).Juvnal Moran, a native of

Mexico who now lives inTaftville, said his family attendsevery year.“There’s more than 20 of us,”

he said waving a hand indicatinghis family members. “That is theway we celebrate (Our Lady ofGuadalupe) in Mexico,” saidMoran. “We go to church andpray. Then we celebrate withmusic, dancing and food.” Moran said his family and

those of Mexican heritage takegreat pride in the feast day. SisterMary Jude Lazarus, SCMC, di-rector of Hispanic ministries forthe diocese, explained thatMary’s message to Juan Diegowas even more broad.“Mary not only belongs to

South America andNorth Amer-ica but all of America,” she said.“We want everyone to feel wel-come - that’s why we have thebilingual Mass. Mary told JuanDiego to be her ambassador andcarry her message. We must allbe her ambassadors, all be hermessengers.”Sister Mary Jude said the

event actually begins each yearthe night before in Willimantic,with a procession from one sideof the town to the other endingat Iglesia del Sagrado Corozonde Jesus (The Church of the Sa-cred Heart of Jesus) in Wind-ham..“The procession starts at

10:30 p.m. and arrives at thechurch at midnight, when theysay prayers called Las Mananitas,prayers to greet the BlessedMother a few minutes into thenew day,” she said.Bishop Cote’s voice was raspy

after the Mass, owing largely tothe terrible weather; but he wasdelighted to acknowledge that“We had record turnout even inthis weather,” he said. “The faithand dedication is incredible.”

By MIchael Gannon

The Miracle RelivedThe Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

e start of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass Sunday, December 12, 2010 at the Cathedral of St. Patrickin Norwich. Photo by Khoi Ton/Norwich Bulletin

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Your Joy might be COMPLETE!” (John 15:9, 11)

“As the Father loves Me(Jesus), so I also love You

(your name). Remain in Mylove. If you keep My

Commandments, you willremain in My love --- All thisI tell you (your name), that…

Diocese of Norwich

Dial A Prayer (860) 887-7767P.O. Box 6, 11 Bath St.Norwich, CT 06360 (860) 887-0702Email: [email protected]

New Year’s Eve Prayer PartyFriday, December 31, 2010 at 7:30 PM

Prayer, Praise, Refreshments – Mass at 10:00 PMSt. Mary Church, 1600 Main Street, Coventry, CT 06238Leaders & Prayer Group Members Gathering – Part 1

Saturday, January 8, 2011 at 9AM to 3PMSpiritual Renewal Center, 11 Bath Street,

Norwich, CT 06360National Service Committee Leaders Meeting

January 14-19, 2011Tampa, FL

Leaders & Prayer Group Members Gathering – Part 2Saturday, February 5, 2011 at 9AM to 3PM

Spiritual Renewal Center, 11 Bath Street,Norwich, CT 06360

Prayer & Discernment Board MeetingMonday, February 7, 2011 at 6:45 PM

Spiritual Renewal Center, 11 Bath Street,Norwich, CT 06360

Mass of Healing and HopeSunday, February 20, 2011 at 2:00 PM

St. Peter Church, 30 St. Peter Lane, Higganum, CT 06441Pastor: Fr. Jan Swiderski

Celebrant: Fr. Ray IntrovignePrayer, Praise, Worship, Adoration & Benediction

Held 2nd & 4th Sunday monthly at 7:00 P.M.St. Mary Church, 1600 Main Street, Coventry, CT 06238

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NORWICH – En el 1531, laBendita Madre se apareció en elcampo mejicano, a un campesino

llamado Juan Diego para procla-mar el mensaje de Cristo aAmérica, particularmente Suabrazo para el pobre.Y cada diciembre, la cele-

bración del banquete del día deNuestra Señora de Guadalupe esuno de los acontecimientos másfestivos en la Diócesis de Nor-wich.Cientos se reunieron en Nor-

wich en la Catedral de San Patri-cio el 12 de diciembre y marcaronla 16a celebración anual con unamisa bilingüe celebrada por elMas Reverendo Michael R. Cote,D.D., Obispo de Norwich. Laiglesia estaba adornada por dentrocon rosas y flámulas rojas, blancasy verdes representando la banderamejicana. Varios niños y jóvenesllevaban puestas vestimentas típi-cas mejicana, y los himnos fuerontocados por el conjunto MariachiInternacional (STET).Juvnal Moran, natural de Méx-

ico y quién ahora vive en Taftville,dijo que su familia asiste a la fiestacada año.“Somos más de 20,” él dijo

mientras agitaba la mano para in-dicar a los miembros de su fa-milia. “Este es el modo quecelebramos (Nuestra Señora deGuadalupe) en México,” dijoMoran. “Vamos a la iglesia yrezamos. Luego celebramos conmúsica, baile y comida.”Moran dijo que su familia al

igual que aquellos de herenciamejicana se enorgullecen al podercelebrar el día de la fiesta. Pero laHermana Mary Jude Lazarus,SCMC, directora de el MinisterioHispano de la diócesis, dijo que elmensaje de María a Juan Diegofue mucho más amplio.“María no pertenece a Su-

damérica o Norteamérica, sino atoda América,” dijo ella. “Lamayor parte de la población his-pana que esta aquí en esta nocheno es mejicana. Queremos que

todos se sientan bienvenidos - poreso tenemos una misa bilingüe.María le dijo a Juan Diego quefuera su embajador y que llevarasu mensaje. Todos debemos sersus embajadores, todos debemosser sus mensajeros.”La hermana Mary Jude dijo que

cada año el evento realmentecomienza la noche anterior enWillimantic, con una procesióndesde un lado de la ciudad haciael otro finalizando en la Iglesia delSagrado Corazón de Jesús enWindham.“La procesión comienza a las

10:30 con llegada a la iglesia a lamedianoche, entonces rezan LasMañanitas, rezan para dar la bien-venida a la Bendita Madre mien-tras un nuevo día comienza,” dijoella.La voz del Obispo Cote estaba

un poco ronca después de la misa,debido en gran parte al maltiempo; pero él estuvo encantadode reconocer que “Tuvimos buenaasistencia a pesar de el maltiempo,” dijo él. “La fe y la dedi-cación de esta gente son in-creíbles.”

Traducido por Rebecca McDougal

Volviendo a Vivir el Milagro el Banquete de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe

By MIchael Gannon

The BrightestChristmas on RecordOver 9,500 tree lights at St. Joseph ChurchNorwich - A tradition, now ten years in the making, had

St. Joseph Church, Norwich all aglow this Christmastide.Under the supervision of Mark Olszewski, Jr., the lead dec-

orator, and with the help of cousinsChristopher and Kevin Olszewski, St.

Joseph Church used a spectacular 9,500 lights to decorate 24Christmas trees inside the church. “Stars Were Brightly Shin-ing” everywhere inside the church.In addition, there were over 100 pots of flowers to further

transform the church into a shining display of the parish-ioners’ devotion to their faith, their Church and the Polishheritage of the Parish.Father Tomasz Sztuber, Pastor of St. Joseph, summarized

the spirit of the extraordinary light display, “I am so proud ofthis one-of-a-kind, blessed demonstration of the light of ourfaith at this holy time in our lives. I hope this wonderful tra-dition will continue for many, many years to come.”

By Mary Pineault


With this issue of the FourCounty Catholic, we begin a year of

preparation for liturgi-

cal changes which willbegin in our parishes inNovember 2011. Theword “change” some-times has the abilityto put us on edge, es-pecially when it con-cerns something sosacred as the celebra-tion of the Eu-charist. However, in this instance,there is no reason at all to be ap-prehensive. Those of us who can remember

back to the 1960s, and the yearsfollowing the close of the SecondVatican Council in1965, recall thatthe liturgical changes introduced atthat time weretruly extraordi-nary. TheChurch wentfrom all massescelebrated inLatin, to cele-bration in thelanguage of thepeople. Thepriest turnedaround to face the congregation,and we were invited to participatein the celebration in many newways. Gregorian Chant was lessand less used. Some of thesechanges were welcomed, otherswere not. Often cited as a short-coming in the implementation ofall these liturgical changes was theeducation intended to accompanythem. That is, those of us in thepews went along with everything,and tried very hard to be attentive,but often the reasons for thechanges were never explained tous. What would be your answers to

these questions about the liturgicalrenewal which followed Vatican II?Why did the Church think it wasimportant for everyone to sing,and not just listen to the choir?Why was the language of the peo-ple considered so important, andLatin de-emphasized? What arethe reasons behind the use of laity

as Lectors and Extraordinary Min-isters of Holy Communion? Whyis it so important for everyone torespond to the priest with “Amen,”and other pieces of dialogue from

the Mass? Why is it moreimportant to respond to

the prayers of the cele-

bration than to say our own privateprayers, such as the rosary? The liturgical life of all Catholics

changed significantly in the 1960s,but for many there wasn’t enoughexplanation. In November 2011our liturgical life will change inmore modest ways, only with re-

spect to some ofthe words withwhich we praytogether. How-ever, the year ofp r e p a r a t i o ngives us thechance to goback and lookat some of thelarger questions

that were missed earlier, and do abetter job of understanding whywe do what we do.So, in the coming year, our

whole diocese will be looking atthe celebration of the Eucharist inour parishes. During this time, wecan consider questions about thechanges to begin in November2011, but we can also take sometime to look back at how we havebeen praying for the past fewdecades, to see if our understand-ing and our celebration of the Eu-charist can be enriched.In the coming months, various

diocesan workshops will be an-nounced which will focus on theseliturgical issues. If you have anyspecific questions about the cele-bration of the Eucharist, and whywe pray as we do in the CatholicChurch, the questions can be sub-mitted to the Editor of the news-paper, or send them [email protected].

By Sister ElissaRinere, CP, JCDOffice of Worship

A New Venture

Tuesday, February 1, 2011 • 7PM • St. Matthew Parish111 Tolland Green • Tolland, CT 06084

Advance Tickets: $10- students $15- adultsTickets purchased at door: $12- students $17- adults

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Welcom ing the

Roman Missal

Third Edition

D eepen, Nurture, Celebrate

Roman RomRoman Roman


It’s the start of a new year and anew decade. For many, it’s a timeto take stock and reflect on the

year ahead. Fortunately, the daysare getting a little bit longer, giv-ing us that much needed sunlightwe so desperately crave as winter’sfrost and freeze remindus of God’s great power.

A new year providesus with a wonderful timeto take a personal inven-tory of our financial mat-ters. Topics to pondercould include reachingretirement goals, estab-lishing a budget to livewithin one’s means, andinvariably, making sure all estateand financial matters are settledby the creation or update of yourwill.Putting one’s affairs in order can

also include a directive to physi-cians, a power of attorney, funeralinstructions and sometimes a lov-ing letter addressed to immediatefamily members. If you are a philanthropic, you

can take these actions a step fur-ther and prepare a charitable re-port. Your report could be

computer generated, or containedin a notebook, folder or large en-velope. The cover sheet should ex-plain why you have prepared thereport and a statement of yourphilosophy of giving why you en-gaged in charitable giving. The purpose of this report, of

course, is not to parade your gifts,but to explain what you did andwhy you did it so your survivors

can be inspired to imitate your ex-ample. After stating your philosophy of

giving, list the names of those or-ganizations you have supportedthrough your regular giving. Indi-cate why these organizations wereimportant to you and what ledyou to start and continue yoursupport. This might include yourregular parish contributions, sup-port of the Annual Bishop’s Ap-peal, Catholic Charities, oranother ministry within the Dio-

cese of Norwich. This year, manyturned their attention to the sur-vivors of the earthquake in Haiti,making generous contributionsfor the devastated nation.

Finally, disclose the plannedgifts you made, including the be-quests in your will, any charitablegift annuities, charitable trusts,endowments or other gift arrange-

ments. Explain your think-ing and motivation. Also,include a copy of any gift-related documents in thissection of your report.Your charitable report

brings together in oneplace the giving philosophyand practices of your life. Itwill be a treasured docu-ment and highly influential

in motivating your children,grandchildren and even great-grandchildren to follow in yoursteps. You don’t need to preach;the power of your example will beenough to inspire imitation.

Please contact MaryLou Gan-notti, Director of Planned Givingfor the Diocese of Norwich, to dis-cuss your gift planning options. Shecan be reached by telephone at 860-886-1928 ext. 15, and by email [email protected].

Taking A Personal Inventory

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During a retreat at the Gift ofGrace Prison Ministry trainingprogram, I was asked, “Will you

talk a little about the CorporalWorks of Mercy and can you list

them?”The Corporal Works of Mercy

are the seven practices of charitytoward our neighbor.According to Scripture in the

Book of Matthew, the CorporalWorks of Mercy practices are

strictly emphasized in Christ’sprophecy regarding The Judgmentof the Nations. Christ’s prophecycontinues to stress that fulfillmentof these ‘works’ will determineeach person’s final destiny. The lastwork of mercy, burying the dead,

comes from the Book of Tobit.Mat 31-40”Then the King will

say to those at his right hand,‘Come, O blessed of my Father,inherit the kingdom prepared foryou from the foundation of theworld; for I was hungry and yougave me food, I was thirsty andyou gave me drink, I was astranger and you wel-comed me, I wasnaked and youclothed me, I wassick and you vis-ited me, I was inprison and youcame to me.’Then the right-eous will answerhim, ‘Lord, whendid we see thee hun-gry and feed thee, orthirsty and give thee drink?’ Andthe king will answer them, ‘Truly,I say to you, as you did it to oneof the least of my brethren, youdid it to me.’”1. To feed the hungry 2. To give drink to the thirsty. 3. To clothe the naked. 4. To visit and ransom the captive, (prisoners). 5. To shelter the homeless. 6. To visit the sick. 7. To bury the dead. Why am I bringing this up now,

and at this time of year? I recallhow Bishop Cote visits prisoners,especially on Christmas Eve Dayto celebrate Mass. And, recently,during Prisons Week, Pope Bene-dict XVI met with prisoners and

this is what he said:”You are al-ways close and I pray that the Lordhelp you on this difficult path: Iwill carry you in my heart and,from my heart, I hope that youcan find the way to make a contri-bution to society, according toyour capacities and the gifts that

God has given you.”I was touched by anarticle by Joe Gar-man, the Presidentof American Re-h a b i l i t a t i o nMinistries inJoplin, Missouri.He wrote that,“In prison,Christmas day isthe second happiest

day of the year. NewYear’s Day is the happiest

because New Year’s signals anotheryear gone by and one nearer re-lease and the outside world. Itdoesn’t really matter which monthyou were ‘sent up’, another calen-dar year has passed. It’s gone for-ever.” He continues to quote aninmate, “I don’t understand Chris-tianity, but I went to chapel any-way. There I saw genuine smilesand wholesome love… Peopleeven asked me my name...not mynumber.”In the still present Spirit of

Christmas, I give thanks to theLord for Bishop Cote who leadsby example, for Pope BenedictXVI who inspires all Christians toaction, to the Clergy and Laitywho work or volunteer within thecorrectional institutions.

Corporal Works of Mercy and the ‘Spirit’ of Christmas

By Sheree Antoch

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Seven women from throughoutthe Diocese of Norwich wereamong the more than 600 members

and friends of the National Councilof Catholic Women (NCCW) whomet at the Renaissance WashingtonHotel to celebrate the 90th Anniver-sary of the founding of NCCW.Convention participants renewedtheir commitment to spirituality,leadership, and service and exploredpractical ways to bring their faith tobear on problems at home and theworld.A panel discussion by some of the

nation’s key Catholic lay leaders ad-dressed ways to transform social jus-tice principles into action.Themoderator for the panel was TonySpence, Director and Editor-in-Chief of Catholic News Service.Thepanel offered ideas on the mostpressing national and internationalpriorities for Catholic leadership.Helen Alvare, Associate Professor ofLaw at George Mason University,noted that more and more childrenare born outside of marriage, put-ting them at higher risk of poverty.There are programs with goals of“trying to connect fathers to chil-dren,” often times they do so “with-out connecting them [fathers] to themothers.”John Carr, Executive Director of

the Department of Justice, Peaceand Human Development at theU.S. Conference of Catholic Bish-ops, asked “What does it mean tobring good news to the poor?”“What does it mean to set the cap-tive free when 10 percent of ourpopulation has nowhere to go,where one million children never seethe day of their birth?” Mr. Carrstated, “We need to change thewind, because politicians changewith the wind.”At the luncheon on Saturday, the

U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See1989-1993, Ambassador ThomasMelady, recounted the history of theU.S.-Vatican relations. In 1840,anti-Catholic sentiment resulted inlegislation that forbade spending“one penny on any contact with theHoly See,” for 90 years. Today “TheU.S. and the Holy See have a lot in

common, particularly their com-mon concern about the unholy trin-ity of poverty, illiteracy, and disease.”The “Our Lady of Good Counsel

Award” was presented to Pearl Sul-lens for her outstanding accomplish-ments in the Archdiocese ofOklahoma City. Twenty-twowomen from throughout theUnited States, whose names weresubmitted to NCCW for the OurLady of Good Counsel Award, werealso honored for their lifetime ac-complishments both on the Na-tional and Diocesan levels ofNCCW and work in their parish

and community. Helen Connellfrom St. John the Evangelist Parishin Uncasville, past Norwich District

and Diocesan President as well asProvince Director of the Province ofHartford on the NCCW board was

one of the women recognized.Helen has been active in Councilboth on the diocesan and nationallevel for 52 years and she served onthe Board of the Associates ofNCCW.Connie Gillies, past Middletown

District President and Past NorwichDiocesan CCW President, was in-stalled as the Province Director forthe Province of Hartford and willserve a two year term on the Na-tional Council of Catholic WomenBoard.The Convention ended with the

closing Mass at the Basilica of theImmaculate Conception. His Emi-nence, Theodore Cardinal McCar-rick, retired Bishop of Washington,DC was the celebrant; MonsignorWalter Rossi, Rector of the Basilica,along with about thirty NCCWDiocesan Moderators, concele-brated the Mass which was in honorof NCCW’s 90 years of dedicationand service to the Church and com-munity.

National Council of Catholic WomenHosts Historic 90th Anniversary Convention

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Knights of Columbus FreestoneCouncil #7 of Portland, CT hasearned the distinction of StarCouncil, one of the organization’stop awards, for the 2009-2010fraternal year. The organiza-tion’s headquarters, locatedin New Haven, Con-necticut, made theannouncement.The award recog-nizes overall excel-lence in the areasof membership, re-cruitment and retention,promotion of the fraternalinsurance program, and spon-sorship of service-oriented activi-ties. In announcing the local winner

of the Star Council Award, Carl A.Anderson, chief executive of the or-ganization, said, “Please accept mysincere congratulations upon at-taining this prestigious award. Your dedication to the Order is

seen in the high standard of excel-lence you have achieved. At thesame time, I encourage you to carryforward this enthusiasm to meetthe challenges that will face the

Knights of Columbus in the yearsahead. May this award be a re-minder and an inspiration to themembers of your council to con-tinue to promote the ideals ofColumbianism for the good ofthe Church, your commu-

nity, and the Order.”“Receiving the StarCouncil Award isquite an honorfor us. We’re ex-tremely proud of

this accomplish-ment,” proclaimed

Buddy Hernandez, GrandKnight of the local council.The Knights of Columbus is

the world’s largest Catholic lay or-ganization. It provides membersand their families with volunteeropportunities in service to theChurch, their communities, fami-lies. With more than 1.8 millionmembers in over 13,000 councilsaround the world, the Knights ofColumbus annually donates morethan $151 million and 69 millionhours of service to charitablecauses. Please visit www.kofc.orgfor more information.

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Norwich Diocesan Councilof Catholic Women Donate to

Charities in DioceseThe Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women had it’s annual December Board

meeting/luncheon. The Board voted to contribute $200 to the Annual Bishop’s Appeal,$200 to the Bishop Hart Endowment for the Poor, $200 to the Catholic Foundation,$300 to the 2010 Catholic Charities Annual Fund Campaign, $200 to Project Northeastand $350 to the National Council of Catholic Women.The board members also brought gift cards to local stores which were divided up be-

tween the three Catholic Charities offices (New London, Norwich and Willimantic).Catholic Charities will give the gift cards to the teenagers that are in the families thatthey service.

Portland Knights ofColumbus Council ReceivesTop International Award


The sunshine was bountiful asparishioners gathered together tocelebrate the 150th Anniversary

Mass of St. Andrew Church inColchester, on Sunday, November28th. The occasion provided an op-portunity to celebrate the history ofthe church itself, as well as the peo-ple that comprise the parish. As the ceremony began, the cele-

brants of the Mass entered while thechoir led the congregation in joy-fully singing “By All Your Saints StillStriving”, a hymn which offers aspecial tribute to St. Andrew, thenamesake of the church. The Mass, led by principal cele-

brant, the Most Reverend MichaelR. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich,was a beautiful testimony to theparish community and its long tra-dition of proclaiming the Catholicfaith. In his thought-provoking homily,

Bishop Cote discussed the history ofSt. Andrew Church, highlightingthe many political and economicchallenges that the early parishionersfaced. Established in 1860, St. An-drew Church originally served manyof the surrounding towns and was asource of strength for Catholics dur-ing a period dominated by anti-im-migrant and anti-Catholic beliefs.Catholicism was viewed by many asa severe detriment to the Protestantand Anglo Saxon values prevalentduring the time. However, as BishopCote pointed out, “the challenges ofthe period did not stop God’sgrace”. Shortly after the first Masswas celebrated in Colchester, St. An-drew received its first resident pastor,Fr. Patrick Creighton, a Jesuit priest.This signaled the permanency of thechurch in the town of Colchester.Bishop Cote went on to explain thatthis, “served as a test to prove thatCatholics were decent and honest aswell as good Americans, and was

very well met by the community.”Throughout the years, St. AndrewChurch continued to lead its spiri-tual flock and grow as a parish. Bythe 1950’s, the small church wasfilled beyond capacity, leading to theconstruction of the present building,in 1966.While the history of St. Andrew

was certainly a focal point of hishomily, Bishop Cote also incorpo-rated the struggles that parishionersface today. The congregation lis-tened intently as the Bishop dis-cussed how Catholicism and thetruth it preaches will always be metwith hostility. He stated, “Anti-Catholicism is as alive today as it wasin the 1860’s.” Despite these chal-lenges, Bishop Cote encouragedparishioners to be proud of whothey are today, and what they havebeen in the past. He declared,“Cherish your roots! Cherish thefaith of those who went against thetide in order to retain their faith.”At the conclusion of what was a

beautiful ceremony, Fr. Michael Gi-annitelli, pastor of St. Andrew

Church and con-celebrant of theMass, offered his sincere thanks tothe Bishop and his fellow priests forjoining him, and all those who par-ticipated in the extensive planningof the celebration. Speaking on thesignificance of the 150th anniver-sary of the church, Fr. Giannitelli of-fered his personal thoughts, stating,“We honor and celebrate a very spe-cial place. This is our church, ourparish. The dramas of your liveshave played out in the walls of thisbulding. Think of all the baptisms,the first communions, the reconcil-iations, and the confirmations…think of the individuals with trou-bled hearts who have reconciledwith God. Think of all of them.This is so much more than a build-ing. It will remain in our hearts, for-ever.”Following the 150th Anniversary

Mass, a reception dinner was held atthe Glastonbury Hills CountryClub, where parishioners were ableto enjoy faith, fellowship and lookforward to another 150 years ofservice to the Lord.

St. Andrew Church Celebrates 150 YearsBy Andrea DePaola

Photo by Andrea DePaola

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Are you looking for more ways tomake prayer an important part ofyour family’s everyday life? Prayer

has been the focus of the first WhyCatholic? faith-sharing season thispast fall in parishes throughout the

diocese. Taking that theme to heart,a Why Catholic? small communityfrom St. Matthew Parish in Tollandset a goal for itself to make prayer,including thanking God, a daily pri-ority within their families. SessionFour of the book Christian Prayerdescribes different forms and types

of prayer, including prayers of bless-ing and adoration, intercession, pe-tition, and others. In the midst ofthe beauty and bounty of the fallseason, the group felt that offeringPrayers of Thanksgiving were espe-cially relevant and timely. In the ses-sion, the text refers to the Catechism

of the Catholic Church’s text, “everyevent and need can become an of-fering of thanksgiving.”(CCC 2638)Inspired by the session’s recom-

mendation for Living the GoodNews: “Take a walk in nature andoffer prayers of praise to God for thebeauty of creation,” the group metearly on a Satur-day morning thispast Octoberwith theirteenaged chil-dren. They vis-ited a townhiking trail,C a m p b e l l ’ sPeaceful ValleyCons e r va t i onArea and set outfor a 40-minutehike on some-what mountainous -- or at least veryhilly -- terrain. With fall foliage anda beautiful blue sky, all were re-warded with an awesome view at thetop of the hike. Their prayer ofthanks to God included singing asong praising God for their childrenin recognition of their upcomingbirthdays. One of the dads hadmade up a “birthday song” that ex-pressed how God made the childrenin His image and has a plan for theirlives. Both adults and children valued

this thankful prayer experience. Re-marked Tim Maurer, one of the fa-thers on the hike, “We wanted to dosomething to share our love of Godand our thankfulness with our fam-ilies.” Naomi, a teenager on the ex-

cursion, commented, “Hiking is acool way to thank God for His cre-ation.”Since the hike, the group mem-

bers have each committed to makethanking God a more constant partof their daily lives and they encour-age other groups to undertake a

similar experi-ence. Fall is over,but winter offersmany beautifuldays to enjoy as afamily withgrateful prayers.Why not

make a NewYear’s resolutionto find time toexpress gratitudeto God with yourfamily? Here are

some ideas to consider:• Say “grace” before meals as a

daily ritual. Add special prayers forblessings experienced during theday. • Each Sunday take turns

telling family members what gifts orquality in them for which you areespecially grateful to God. • Take time to write thank you

notes for recent Christmas or birth-day gifts. Tell the person you willpray in thanksgiving for his or hergoodness. • Remind children to start

bedtime prayers with a prayer ofthanks before prayers of petition. • Make a small donation to

the poor for a prayer answered. Thiscustom, known as “St. Anthony’sBread,” dates back to 1263 when amother’s prayer to St. Anthony forher child’s life was answered. With Lent approaching, parish-

ioners can also join part in a WhyCatholic? small faith-sharing com-munity. Prayer will be the continu-ing focus during that holy season,with a special emphasis on exploringthe Lord’s Prayer. Anyone who is in-terested in joining a small groupmay contact Father Joseph Whittelat (860) 443-1875, Marge Vannerat (860) 848-2237 x 312, or SisterMary Jude at (860) 456-3349.

By Deirdre Malacrea

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Bro. Donat J. Daigle, OMIMissionary Oblate

Brother for 48 YearsSeptember 4, 1931 ~ December 4, 2010

Bro. Donat J. Daigle,OMI, 79, died at BlairHouse, Tewksbury, MAon December 4, 2010after a lengthy illness. Hewas born in Lowell, MAon September 4, 1931, ason of the late Wilfredand Cecile (Morrissette)Daigle.Bro. Donat entered the

Oblate Novitiate in Cole-brook, NH on October31, 1953 and made his

first vows there on November 1, 1954. He professed perpet-ual vows on November 1, 1960 in Bucksport, ME.Inspired by the example of his uncle, Fr. Donat Morissette,

OMI, he began studies at Bucksport, ME, but as time wenton, he realized his talents were drawing him to the life of abrother rather than a priest.Following Bucksport he was assigned briefly to Immacu-

lata Retreat House, Willimantic, CT. He then joined withBro. Paul Ricard, OMI to form a mobile team in 1979. Theywere given a van and the tools needed for repairs and minorconstruction. They traveled the province, saving the Oblatesthousands of dollars. Bro. Daigle served at the Shrine of Our Lady of Grace,

Colebrook, NH, Ephpheta House, Manvill, RI, and OurLady of Good Counsel House, Lowell, MA. From 1981 to1985 he was on the staff of the Oblate Seminary in Natick,MA while serving two terms as a provincial council member.He was the first Oblate brother to be a member of theProvincial Council. In September of 1984, he returned tothe Shrine of Our Lady of Grace in Colebrook and was thefirst Oblate brother to be appointed superior of a NorthernProvince Oblate Community. He served three terms as su-perior in Colebrook, and stayed on for one more year astreasurer.In 1993, he was assigned to the staff at the St. Paul Center

in Augusta, ME. The work that the maintenance team didthere was extensive and very professional. He also served astreasurer and assistant to the superior. In 1997, this propertywas transferred to the Diocese of Portland, ME and he re-mained there until February of 1998 to close the center aftermany years of service to the Catholic community of Maine.Bro. Donat joined the staff at the Immaculata Retreat

House for a second time in March of 1998. He then returnedto Colebrook, NH in April of 2006. He remained until fallof 2010, when due to failing health, he was assigned to theImmaculate Heart of Mary Residence in Tewksbury, MA.

After months of careful plan-ning and community participa-tion, St. Vincent DePaul –

Middletown’s Amazing GraceFood Pantry has relocated and ex-panded to three times its formersize. The Most Reverend MichaelR. Cote, Bishop of Norwich, wasthere at the November 27, 2010opening to bless the new facility.He was joined by St. Vincent De-Paul – Middletown Executive Di-

rector, Ron Krom. The new andmuch larger pantry will now beable to serve many more familiesin the greater Middletown com-munity, at a time when the eco-nomic recession continues toincrease the need. The renovationof the new pantry represents acommunity-wide accomplishmentof over 2,000 volunteer hours. Aproject very much by the commu-nity and for the community.The official ribbon-cutting cer-

emonies took place on December

9, 2010, generously attended bymany civic leaders and supportersof the Amazing Grace FoodPantry. On hand to share in thecelebration and thanksgiving wereSenator Paul Doyle, State Repre-sentative Matt Lesser, Mayor Se-bastian Giuliano, Chamber ofCommerce President LarryMcHugh and members of theMiddletown Common Council.Everyone recognized the newpantry as welcoming, spacious anda place of kindness and respect.

New and Amazing FoodPantry Opens in Middletown

Proximo Travel, Your Catholic Tour Company 2011

Anthony Nachef, PhD (Theology) OwnerToll Free: 1-877-994-8259 Phone: 508-340-9370 Email: [email protected]

www.proximotravel.comAir Fare and ALL INCLUSIVE on all trips from anywhere in the USA: $2,999, $3,390, $3,790, $3,990, $4,490

Italy Regular: May 14 22, June 25 July 3, July 2 10, Sept3 11, Sept 17 25, Sept 26 Oct 6, Oct 1 9, Oct 15 23, Oct29 Nov 6…Italy/Switzerland: April 2 14, April 30 May 12, May 14 26,May 28 June 9, June 25 July 7, July 2 14, Sept 3 15, Sept10 22, Sept 12 23, Sept 17 29, Sept 25 Oct 3, Oct 1 3,Oct 8 20, Oct 15 27, Oct 29 Nov 10…Holy Land: April 7 17, April 25 May 5, May 16 26, May 23 June2, May 26 June 5, June18 28, June 30 July 10, Sept 1 11, Sept15 25, Oct 6 16, Oct 20 30, Oct 25 Nov 3, Oct 31 Nov10…

France, Spain, Portugal: May 14 26, June 30 July 12, Sept10 22, Sept 17 29, Sept 24 Oct 6, Oct 8 20, Oct 15 27…France: May 14 26, July 2 14 & Sept 10 22…Ireland/Scotland: May 14 26; July 9 21; Sept 3 15…Italy South: Sept 10 22…Italy/Holy Land: March 20 April 1, May 9 22, May 16 29,June 20 July 3, June 27 July 10, Aug 29 Sept 11, Sept 1225, Sept 26 Oct 9, Oct 10 23…Medjugorje/Lourdes/Fatima: May 4 15 & Sept 3 14…

FCC News Desk


Catholic Charities Behavioral Health ClinicOffering a full range of behavioral services in our licensed clinics located in Norwich,New London, and Portland.

~ Psychological Assessment~ Psychiatric (Medication) Evaluation and Medication Management~ Intensive Treatment Programming~ Anger Management therapy~ Specialized Treatment for Persons with Co-occurring Disorders~ Substance Abuse Treatment~ Availability of Agency Based Self Help (Dual Recovery Anonymous) Meetings~ Individual, Group, Family, and Couples (Marriage) therapy~ Case Management~ Post Abortion Counseling

For questions about our services or for more information please contact:Holly Dreger, MSW, LCSW at (860) 889-8346 ex.280or Dr. Ciro Anthony Massa, Psy.D, LCSW, LADC


In Search of God MomentsMy spiritual director recently re-

minded me of the importance ofbeing sensitive to the “God mo-

ments” in the daily routine of life -- those experiences when webecome particularlyaware of God’s pres-ence. I believe thatsometimes His all con-suming love for usimpels Him to slipout from behind theunseen curtain everyonce in awhile to give us akind of love tap upon oursouls, leaving such a divinemix of love and light that wejust know – God was there.He has done this throughout

history in all sorts of different waysfrom burning bushes to softlyfalling snow. And it doesn’t reallymatter how or what God uses tomanifest Himself – just that Hedoes. Speaking of “God with us” is

kind of a natural segue to the beau-tiful season of Advent and Christ-mas. We have celebrated theawesome gift of God, Who, lovingus so much, took on our very na-ture, in order to commune moreintimately with us -- the ultimate“God moment” of all time! Whatmore intimate and personal waycould God have chosen, then tocome humbly and softly into ourworld so He could teach us, bewith us, share our human sorrows,sufferings, joys and emotions – tounderstand fully the human expe-rience – and to die so that we couldlive.On December 4th, my brother-

in-law, John, passed away. It was asad experience for the family andyet another very concrete reminderof how fleeting life is. Death has away of putting things in clear per-spective. We see what is importantand what is not. Any imperfectionsor weaknesses the deceased mayhave had quickly diminish in lightof all those things we loved aboutthe person – and don’t we wishmore than anything that we couldsay all those things that we shouldhave said while they lived amongus? How different our lives would be

if this insightful perspective thatdeath keenly amplifies for a timecould be more prevalent while ourloved ones are with us. We assumethat they will be with us for a longtime, and perhaps don’t tell themoften enough that we love them,

that we appreciatet h e i rpre s -

ence,their humor, their endearingphrases, mannerisms.In the end, family and friends are

what matter most. So, why do wefill our lives with so many otherthings that don’t really matter? Arenot our warmest memories of mo-ments we’ve spent with family andloved ones? God who is love is also “family”.

Love, at its purest, deepest essenceis an outpouring of itself intosomething else – a total, selfless giv-ing. That’s why God as Trinitymakes sense. God is not solitary.He is family -- the Father pouringHimself into the Son, throughwhich such ardent and radiant love,comes the Holy Spirit. God’s verynature is giving – and this firewhich has taken up residence in

our core being is what impels us todo loving things. One special “God moment” I

experienced recently encapsulatedthis kind of impelling love. Aftermy brother-in-law’s wake, I had theprivilege of dining out with a priestfriend of the family. Some greatconversation abounded and towardthe end of the meal, he took note

of a young family of fivesitting just across fromour table. He decided thathe was going to pay fortheir meal. He didn’t

know this family. They wereperfect strangers. He wentover to the family’s table, in-troduced himself, and chattedawhile in his inimitable kind

and gentle way. This was one ofthose rare moments when God’spresence was truly felt. In one small corner of the world,

this priest shined his light in thisever-increasingly shadowed worldof ours. I know that his one spon-taneous act of kindness touched mevery deeply as I am sure it did thefamily. No one ever really knowsjust how much a kind selfless ac-tion like this affects others but Ithink that divine mix of light andlove set something in motion thatnight – perhaps for years to comebecause – God was there.

Mary Tunison works for CatholicCharities, Archdiocese of Hartford,and is a freelance writer, photogra-pher, artist, and graphic designer. Shecan be contacted at [email protected].

By Mary Tunison

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March 18– 20, 2011

Senior Citizens Retreat Day:How As A Senior Do I Live Lent?

Presented by Fr. Roger Couture OMI, this Wednesday morningprogram explores how seniors can continue their spiritual growth

even in this later phase of their life journey.Suggested offering: $10, includes lunch.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011 ~ 9:00 AM to Lunch

Soup and Substance Lenten Evening Retreat Series:“Living in the Image and Likeness of God”

We are created in the image and likeness of God, but how oftendo we think about that? What does it really mean in terms of ourday-to-day lives and in our search for the divine? This is a video

Retreat with talks presented by Fr. Ron Rolheiser,OMI a specialistin the fields of spirituality and systematic theology.

Wednesdays February 9,16,23, 2011Offering of $20.00 per evening or $50.00 for all 3 sessions

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(NEW HAVEN, Conn.) —The Knights of Columbus Mu-seum have opened a new exhibi-tion, featuring a full-scale bronzereproduction of Michelangelo’sBruges Madonna sculpture.

Michelangelo (1475–1564) was apainter, sculptor and architectduring the Italian Renaissance.Two of his best-known works, thePietà and David, were sculpted be-fore he turned 30. Michelangelo

also created the fresco scenes fromGenesis and the Last Judgment inRome’s Sistine Chapel. Carved inFlorence, the Bruges Madonna isthe only known Michelangelosculpture to leave Italy during hislifetime. It was purchased by twobrothers from the Mouscron fam-ily, affluent cloth merchants inBelgium, and donated to thebeautiful, gothic Church of OurLady in the city of Bruges. Thisexact reproduction was cast froma 1932 plaster mold by theMarinelli Foundry in Florence,Italy. The world-renowned bronzefoundry also cast the Holy Doorof Saint Peter’s Basilica, the spiralstaircases of the Vatican Museums,monuments for the U.S. Depart-ment of Defense and many itemsin the restoration of the Kremlinin Moscow. The bronze Madonna

was unveiled Oct. 27, 2009,at the Casa Buonarroti,Michelangelo’s home inFlorence. Two monthslater, it made its U.S. pre-miere in Washington,D.C., at the Basilica of theNational Shrine of theImmaculate Concep-tion. The lenders aremembers of the Gaddyfamily, entrepreneursand altruists from Vir-ginia.Admission and park-

ing are free for the ex-hibition. The Knightsof Columbus Museumis located at 1 State Streetin New Haven. For moreinformation, call 203-865-0400 or visitkofcmusum.org.

For information please call Tom Kenny - General Agent,

at (860) 434-7002 or email: [email protected] 51179

K of C Museum Debuts Michelangelo ReproductionMarian Lecture to Kick-Off Exhibition

Wedding Crashersat Tamarack

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“True Grit,” the 1969 film star-ring John Wayne, was the first“grown-up” movie I saw as a kid.

I was nine years old at the time,and I remember the experiencevividly. I also discovered, throughthat film, that I had a gift formimicry. For years afterward, atfamily parties, I was invited to re-produce the Duke’s distinctivedrawl: “I wouldn’t a-asked you tobury him if he wann’t dead.”The Cohen brothers, the au-teurs behind “Fargo,” “NoCountry For Old Men,” and“A Serious Man” are amongthe best and most spirituallyalert filmmakers on the scenetoday. And so it was with greatexcitement that I learned thatthe Cohens had produced a re-make of “True Grit.” Thoughtheir version is far different fromthe original, I found it com-pelling, especially in the measurethat it brings the religious dimen-sion of the story to the fore.The leitmotif is set in the open-

ing moments of the movie, as wehear Mattie, the narrator and prin-cipal character, say in voice-over“the only thing in life that’s free isthe grace of God.” The film willunfold as an extended meditationon the play between justice andmercy, between what is owed andwhat is given as a grace. Fourteenyear old Mattie, whose father hadbeen killed in cold blood by a manhe had befriended, lives in a worldof strict justice, of give and take,of contracts and obligations.Bound and determined to see herfather’s killer hanged, Mattie hiresa wizened old law man namedRooster Cogburn (played withcharacteristic naturalness by JeffBridges) and gives him the chargeof tracking down the murderer.We get a delicious taste of Mattie’spersonality as she, with lawyerlyskill and fierce persistance, wrestsfrom an oily horse-trader themoney she needs to pay Rooster.And when Cogburn leaves with-out her, convinced that the teen-aged city slicker would only slowhim down, she rides her horseright across a raging river to catch

up to him—and then remindshim that he is in breach of con-tract! Mattie is a mulier fortis, awoman not to be trifled with. She moves with Rooster and Le

Boeuf—a Texas ranger who is alsolooking for the murderer—intoIndian country, a place of lawless-ness, where drifters live outside theconstraints of polite society. Theycorner a couple of members ofNed Pepper’s gang, for Roos-ter is con-

vinced that the killermight have joined forces withthese desperados. After a shoot-out and a violent interrogation,two men are dead and a third iswounded. The next day, by thebank of a river, Mattie encountersher father’s killer and manages towound him before being capturedby Ned Pepper and his men. Inthe most stirring scene in the film,Rooster manages, single-handedlyto take on the entire Pepper gang,holding the reins of his horse inhis teeth and firing with bothhands. After this encounter, fourmore men lie dead. Finally, Mattiefrees herself and shoots to deathher father’s murderer, but the re-coil on the gun is so strong thatshe is pushed into a snake pit,where she receives a bite on thehand. I’ll get back to the snake pitin a moment, but notice first whatthis canny fourteen year old girl’slust for vengeance has wrought:

eight dead men. She wanted onlyto bring her father’s killer to jus-tice, but the single-mindedness ofher pursuit conduced toward adisproportionate, even barbaric,result, something far beyond therequirements of justice. Her exces-sive and one-sided passion forrighteousness kicked her into aden of snakes, and no one with aBiblical sensibility could miss thesymbolic overtone of this kind offall. As she lies helpless and desper-

ately injured, Mattie looks up andsees Rooster Cogburn loweringhimself by rope to the bottom ofthe pit. He cuts into her woundand sucks out as much of the poi-son as he can and then he bringsher back up, places her on a horseand commences a furious ride tothe nearest doctor who is manymiles away. When the horsegives way from sheer exhaustionbeneath him, Rooster picks upMattie in his arms and carriesher through the night to thedoctor’s home. Now Cogburnis a man of the law, and likeMattie, he was aiming tobring a killer to justice, butwhat these heroic actions onbehalf of the girl reveal is

that he more than that. His pas-sion for justice is accompanied by,even surpassed, by his mercy, hisgraciousness, his willingness togive even when that giving wasnot, strictly speaking, owed. As the film comes to a close, we

have fast-forwarded many yearsinto the future, and a still prim,unmarried, and somewhat coldMattie has just learned of thedeath of Rooster Cogburn. Wethen see that she has but one arm.Though Rooster’s graciousnesssaved Mattie’s life, the doctor, evi-dently, was not able to save herlimb. And as the final credits roll,we hear the beautiful old spiritual“Leaning on the EverlastingArms,” which speaks of the “fel-lowship and joy divine” whichcomes from “leaning on the ever-lasting arms” of God. Rooster hadcarried Mattie in his two arms,evocative of both justice andmercy, attributes that come to-gether supremely in God. Mattie’s

tragedy is that she had only justice,only one arm. The same Cohenbrothers who gave us a powerfulimage of God in the tornado atthe conclusion of “A SeriousMan,” have given us still anotherin the strong arms of Rooster Cog-burn.

Father Robert Barron is thefounder of Word on Fire Ministries.He is “one of the church’s best mes-sengers” and great teacher of thefaith. He is a prominent theologian,author of numerous books, and asought out speaker and cultural com-mentator. In the Fall of 2011, a 10part documentary, Catholicism, willbe released with Father Barron was

the host and writer. The documen-tary is the history of the Catholicchurch spanning 50 locations in 15countries.

He was ordained a priest with theArchdiocese of Chicago in 1986 andholds the Francis Cardinal GeorgeChair of Faith and Culture atMundelein Seminary. He receivedhis Master’s Degree in Philosophyfrom the Catholic University ofAmerica (1982) and his doctoratein theology from the InstitutCatholique de Paris (1992).

His numerous articles on theologyand culture have appeared in a va-riety of journals, newspapers andmagazines.

“True Grit” and the Everlasting ArmsBy Reverend Robert Barron

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The New Outreach to Haiti Unites Two AgenciesA new agency to serve Haitians

in need has been formed by theDiocese of Norwich, CT, bringing

together the services, programsand projects of its two agenciesthat have been working in Haitifor decades.Diocese of Norwich Outreach

to Haiti unites and preserves all

the existing services and facilitiesof both Haitian Ministries andHospice St. Joseph. Their centersin Port-au-Prince eventually willbe located in a new mission houseto be built at the site presently oc-cupied by Hospice St. Joseph. Themission house of Haitian Min-istries was destroyed in the January12th earthquake.The union maintains the sup-

port provided to all of Haitian

Ministries’ programs: the twin-ning program; the Tierney-Tobinscholarship for impoverished stu-dents; the meal program for chil-dren at Madame Samson’s house;the support for two orphanages(Paula Thybulles’orphanage forgirls and La Maison L’Arc-en-Ciel); immersion visits; and thenon-profit shop Haiti’s BackPorch in Middletown, CT, whichsupports artisans in Haiti.

In a recent announcement, theMost Reverend Michael R. Cote,Bishop of Norwich, said, “Forsome time now the need to unifydiocesan services in Haiti has beenapparent. Since the earthquake ithas become even more essentialthat we devote the maximumamount of time, energy, and re-sources to immediate and directassistance to the Haitian people.In view of the dire needs that

presently exist in Haiti, I haveconcluded that it is in the best in-terest of the Haitian people for usto consolidate our services and fa-cilities in Haiti.”Dennis Petruzzi has been

named interim Executive Direc-tor. In Connecticut, Outreach toHaiti will have its office at 199Broadway, Norwich, CT, which isthe same address used by HaitianMinistries and Hospice St. Joseph.

New Year Resolutions

Cut my expenses

Take a trip

Make a new friend

Exercise more

Join a book club

Have more fun!

By Kyn TolsonDevelopment Director, Outreach to Haiti

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1122 SSaaiinnttss ooff PPoorrttuuggaall,, SSppaaiinn aanndd FFrraanncceeAnthony in Lisbon, Teresa in Avila,

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Margaret Mary Alacoque in Paray-le-Monial,Bernadette in Nevers, Therese in Lisieux,

Catherine Laboure, Louise de Marillac andVincent de Paul in Paris.

Also visit Santerem, Vespers at SantoDomingo de Silos, Carcassonne, Avignon

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Cholera and Earthquake Devastation Call ForGreater Relief Efforts in Haiti

As cholera claimed more than2,400 lives in Haiti by mid-De-cember, Haitian Ministries was

maintaining links with priests inthe nine parishes twinned withchurches in Connecticut and inMilwaukee to provide informationon how help might be best deliv-ered to tens of thousands ofHaitians in those communitieswho are threatened by the deadlydisease.At least three of the Haitian

parishes have reported deaths andillnesses due to cholera, starting inmid-November. No confirmationof those numbers was available.The two orphanages in Port-au-

Prince twinned through a HaitianMinistries’ program with MercyHigh School in Middletown andSt. John’s Church in Uncasvillehave not reported any deaths or ill-nesses. The children at Madame Sam-

son’s meal program in a Port-au-Prince slum have not yet beenaffected, according to a Decemberreport. The meal program is nothowever a “twin.” It has been re-ceiving its operating funds fromHaitian Ministries since the early1990s and now has from 60 to 90children who get their only mealsat her house. The program has in-stituted “good health practices” forthe children as a cholera preventa-tive measure. Also, it has installedrunning water treated by bleach.The potable water is available to allchildren registered in the program.The Church of the Holy Family

in Hebron, partnered with a parishof more than 30,000 people northof Port-au-Prince, sent emergencyaid to the rural community ofFonds-Baptiste after the priest therereported six deaths and dozens ofpeople stricken by cholera in No-vember. The outbreak of cholera in

Haiti—confirmed in October andidentified as matching a strain inSouth Asia—involves the first con-firmed cases in the country since

World Health Organizationrecords began in the mid-20th cen-tury. Suspected outbreaks of a dif-ferent strain of cholera might haveoccurred in Haiti more than a cen-

tury ago. Cholera, civil unrest arising from

a scheduled presidential electionrun-off in January, and the devas-tation and chaos that remain in the

wake of last January’s earthquakehave combined to create health and

safety problems overwhelming thenation and the extensive humani-tarian efforts there.Haitian Ministries has continued

to deliver emergency relief sincedays after the January 2010 earth-quake. More than $420,000 wasdisbursed by the end of November,and additional relief funds wereearmarked for longer-term recoverymeasures. For the nine parishes and the

Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince,which is twinned with the Dioceseof Norwich itself, Haitian Min-istries has delivered in excess of$155,000 in relief aid. The two or-phanages—Paula Thybulle’s or-phanage for girls and La MaisonL’Arc-en-Ciel—have receivedabout $50,000 since early Decem-ber in emergency funds. (For de-tails of those disbursements andothers, please see the homepage ofwww.haitianministries.org.)In mid-December, Haitian Min-

istries was merged with the Dioceseof Norwich’s other agency in Haiti,Hospice St. Joseph, to form thenew Diocese of Norwich Outreachto Haiti. All the programs of bothagencies have been preserved, andfunding allocated to those pro-grams for either emergency or reg-ular support will remain in place.For more information, call the

Outreach to Haiti office at860.848.2237 ext. 206.

A line of children in Madame Samson’s meal program forms at the newly installed clean water system. Photoby Dr. Wilkins Gilbert, son of Madame Samson. Photo supplied by Kyn Tolson

Jeremiah J. Lowney, D.D.S., M.S.Jennifer J. Lowney, D.M.D.

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Members of Mercy HighSchool’s SADD (StudentsAgainst Destructive Decisions)

Chapter recently attended aleadership conference organizedby the Middlesex County Sub-stance Abuse Action Council.Nine Mercy students, along withfaculty moderator Mrs. SanchitaMaitra, participated in the“Leading with Assets” regionalconference, where they came to-gether with students from otherschools to learn more about theirresponsibilities as student leadersand brainstorm better ways tohelp other teens recognize thatthey can be successful in theworld. The all-day conference fea-

tured keynote presenter JimConway, senior trainer at SearchInstitute, who spoke about theessential developmental assetsfor youth. He urged the studentsin attendance to “start a commu-

nity-wide initiative, creating or-ganizational and communitychange on behalf of youth.” Upon their return to Mercy,

the SADD representatives whoattended the conference sharedthe information they learnedwith other student members oftheir chapter and discussed waysto share the message they heardwith the Mercy community. TheMercy SADD Chapter, one ofthe largest organizations in theschool, is part of the nationalSADD organization and holdsmonthly meetings where mem-bers listen and interact withguest speakers, watch and dis-cuss videos which address de-structive decisions of youngpeople, and design ways to getthe SADD message across totheir peers.

Mercy Students AttendSADD Conference

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Benefit In Honorof Jes Egan

1992 Xavier Alumni Matt Dunn, Matt Fragola, andWally Stojak are among a group who have come togetherto offer assistance to their friend and classmate Jes Egan,his children, fiancee and family members. On January16th, they have arranged for a Benefit in honor of Jes.Xavier has donated the use of the dining room in St. JosephHall for the event. Plans are for dinner, music, cash bar,raffle and auction to help raise needed funds for Jes andhis family.Jes is battling an inoperable brain tumor (diagnosed in

September) and the cost personally and on his family hasprompted this show of support. Donations and hard workare helping to make this event possible. Tickets for theevent are $20 per person and are available at Xavier’s Officeof Advancement as well as from committee members; foradditional donations or more information visit forjes.com.Headmaster Brother Brian Davis, C.F.X. said, “fostering

enduring personal relationships is central to the missionand vision of Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools, so weare happy to support these young men who are working tohelp a friend.”Help spread the word about this event.

SADD officers and members attending the leadership conference include: Kathleen Darling, Shannon Egan, SarahHemstock, Victoria Piscatelli, Sophia Panaccione, Bridget Scott, Michelle Ruel, Amanda Bernard, Rachel Hem-stock and Mrs. Sanchita Maitra. Photo submitted by Sanchita Maitra/Mercy High School

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Nothing feels like a better bar-gain than a one-cent book, so I al-

ways click on Amazon’s usedcategory. Not only does it save me money,

it comes with the added benefit offootprints from aprevious reader –marks flagging thesentences thatstruck someonesomewhere, aperson who canunknowing lyoffer me a flash-light for the storyahead.I also look for clues to identity

– a library stamp, a cursive inscrip-tion – and marvel at the book’sjourney. Joseph Cardinal Bernardin’s

end-of-life reflection “The Gift OfPeace” was passed from a daughterto a mother, then back to a daugh-ter from a mother – with Good-will in between. When I read thenote inside, dated April 1998, “ToMom – All my love, Mary,” Iknew a similar love brought it tome. Then there’s the “Chicken Soup

For the Soul: Living Your Dreams”edition, copyright 2003. Amazonoffers 121 used copies – 18 for apenny – but mine came throughSam’s Club, where it sold for$7.47, down from its cover priceof $12.95, and was later consignedfor a dollar. The first chapter includes a goal

sheet for the reader to fill out. Aprevious owner played by therules, leaving secrets in black ink. He vowed to triple his income

of $30,000 and lose half of his 240pounds. “My ideal soul mate is:someone I can talk with, sharethings we like to do together,” hewrote in the book. “My rightlivelihood is: be my own boss.Other dreams I have are: a homeon a lake.” It’s not just hand-me-down

books that become hand-me-down wisdom. As I orient to2011, I’m thinking of all the

things we share: recipes andknock-knock jokes, bobby pinsand bug spray. Parking spaces andprayer cards, passwords andpriests. How impossible a yearwould be if I were left to my ownbag of tricks.Giving something small can

have a big effect, cracking openthe heart and sharpening a sense

of purpose. I know for sure thatgenerosity invites grace, and I’mdetermined to welcome the newyear with upturned palms, as thecheerful giver God loves. Whenwe share we are drawn into com-munity, practical support under-lined by neighborly affection. Our year begins with Epiphany,

when the Magi from the East fol-low the star. Along the way theyshare bread and blankets. Theirfellowship guides and sustainsthem, carrying them to Bethlehemwhere they drop to the ground in

worship of the Christ Child.“Then they opened their treasuresand offered him gifts of gold,frankincense and myrrh.” We are prepared for this well-

known Gospel by a short secondreading, when St. Paul tells theEphesians about “the stewardshipof God’s grace that was given tome for your benefit.” And therein

is the key to itall, that we are

merely stewards ofthe blessings andcrock pots andlaptops in ourhomes. We donot own them;

we are temporarykeepers. In that spirit

we do not count or col-lect but give freely.

When we embrace the call tocommunity and stewardship, itbecomes easier to journey towardthe star. As you do, look out forthe pilgrims who fall into stridewith you, if even for an hour. Andtogether, leave bread crumbs forthe ones who will follow.

Christina Capecchi is a freelancewriter from Inver Grove Heights,Minn. She can be reached atwww.ReadChristina.com.

Secondhand Books and Recycled GraceWhy Good Stewards Share

By ChristinaCapecchiFour County Catholic Contributor

Head of SchoolSaint Bernard School

Uncasville, CTFounded in 1956, St. Bernard School is a RomanCatholic coeducational school composed of grades6-12. Co-sponsored by the Xaverian Brothers andthe Diocese of Norwich, St. Bernard’s serves stu-dents from more than 50 communities in south-eastern Connecticut by offering a rigorous collegepreparatory curriculum based on the educationalphilosophy of the Xaverian Brothers.

The Board of Trustees now seeks an innovativeHead of School to shape the school’s future andserve as the chief executive officer. The responsibil-ities include overseeing the educational program ofthe school, board relations, strategic planning,fund development, enrollment and financial man-agement.

The successful candidate will be a practicingCatholic with an understanding of and commit-ment to the mission of Catholic education andXaverian sponsorship. A minimum of a master’sdegree is required along with demonstrated admin-istrative or managerial abilities, financial manage-ment skills and experience in institutional advance-ment. The candidate should possess superiorwritten and verbal communication skills.

Interested applicants should provide a letter ofapplication, a résumé or curriculum vitae, a state-ment addressing the role of leadership in Catholiceducation as well as the names, specific contactinformation and e-mail addresses of five profession-al references to:

Dr. John Shine, Chair,St. Bernard School Search Committee Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools

4409 Frederick Avenue Baltimore, MD 21229

For more information and a more detailed jobdescription, visit the school's website www.saint-

bernard.com or contact [email protected]

West Main Street • Baltic, Connecticut

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EDUCATIONAL CENTER

Celebrations in the Diocese’sschools will not conclude with theend of the Christmas/New Year’s

season this year. Schools acrossthe Diocese are making plans nowto celebrate Catholic SchoolsWeek, which runs from Jan. 30 toFeb 5.According to the National

Catholic Educational Association,this year’s theme for CatholicSchools Week is “A+ For America– Catholic Schools,” which cele-brates the fact that Catholicschools are an “added value forthe nation.” A NCEA press releasestates that “because of their tradi-tionally high academic standardsand high graduation rates, all sup-ported by strong moral values,Catholic schools and their gradu-ates make a definite contributionto American society.”This sentiment was seconded

by many school principals in theNorwich diocese.Sr. Mary David, SCMC, Prin-

cipal of the Sacred Heart School

in Taftville, said CatholicSchools Week “gives us the op-

portunity to appreciatewhat Catholic educationis all about. We have chil-dren recognize what theirgifts and talents are andnurture them to achievethe end that God createdthem for.”According to Sr. Mary

David, graduates of Sa-cred Heart are better pre-pared to meet thechallenges of secondaryeducation and higherlevel schools. Thingssuch as reading and studyskills are ingrained inthese graduates that helpmake them successful in their en-deavors at higher academic levels.Principal Anne Tortora of St.

Mary Star of the Sea School inNew London is enthusiasticallywaiting for Catholic SchoolsWeek. “I live for Catholic School

Week. It’s important that we re-

member Matthew’sGospel – don’t hide yourlight under a bushel. Thisis an opportunity toshow our light and it’sgood news. Plus it’s ourtradition.”Principal Marianne

Cote of St. Joseph Schoolin New London said re-search proves that aCatholic education usu-ally leads students to goon to college and succeedthere.“Being an elementary

school, we provide an ed-ucation that educates the wholechild, not just the academicchild,” she said. She went on tosay that former students oftencome back to the school to thankthe teachers and staff for what

they learned at St. Joseph’s.Activities planned at the Dio-

cese’s schools for Catholic SchoolsWeek vary according to school.Some of the activities planned atSacred Heart are Literacy Day,where students may dress up liketheir favorite book characters;Math/Science Day; a talent showand school assemblies. Each daywill begin with a Prayer Serviceand Mass will be celebrated onFriday, Feb. 5.St. Mary Star of the Sea School

has activities such as Color Day,Hat Day, Team Day and a specialday in which young students in-vite senior citizens to the schoolfor tea.“It’s a weeklong connection to

promote spirit; to get the childrenused to doing things together,”said Principal Tortora. “It’s a weekto show unity. It’s easy to forgetthat we’re part of a larger commu-nity.”At St. Joseph School there are

cooperative art projects, openhouses, scavenger hunts, and abasketball game, to name a few ofthe activities planned.All the school principals said

not just teachers are to be in-volved in Catholic Schools Weekactivities. Staff and parents willplay integral parts as well.Catholic Schools Week is a

joint project of NCEA and theU.S. Conference of CatholicBishops. This year is the 38th yearit has been celebrated, the firstbeing in 1974.Catholic School Week is a time

each year for us to remember thecommitment which the CatholicChurch has to education. It is alsoa time to recommitment ourselvesto educating children and familiesin our faith. The Church has agreat tradition to education. It hasbeen especially committed duringthe history of the United States.At this time, we encourage fami-lies to choose Catholic educationfor their children and we urge thefaithful to support Catholic edu-cation in our diocese.


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A different kind of school is re-siding across from St. MichaelChurch in Pawcatuck these days.

An entire wall outside of the prin-cipal’s office features a school ofmulti-colored little aquatic crea-tures, all spreading the news ofgood deeds and kind spirit.As part of a school-wide initia-

tive to encourage respect and kind-ness, students who are “caught”helping others are spotlighted on awall of fish for all to see. The mainmessage is to treat everyone as youwould like to be treated. It could be said that the initiative

is coming along swimmingly, ac-cording to Doris Messina, princi-pal. “The mission of St. MichaelSchool is to provide the formationof Catholic faith for our studentsin a nurturing environment. Thefish wall helps us to teach the stu-dents not only to treat each otheras they wish to be treated; but totreat each other the way that Jesusinstructed us.”The students have been caught

in a variety of kind acts that en-courage others to act in kind. Someof the deeds on the wall include:Sarah, grade one, was willing to

give up her school store money tohelp a friend who had forgottenher lunch buy something to eat Joseph, Kindergarten, cleaned

up toys he did not play withAndrea, grade five, replaced a

worn out library book with a brandnew copyEthan, grade three, helped a

younger student wash his handsBryn, grade three, returned

money she found in a library book.Other good deeds included

helping classmates in math, allow-ing someone to go in line first,helping connect classroom com-puters, sharing crayons with afriend, and walking with a friendto the school nurse. Every age andgrade is learning to treat each otherwith kindness in a variety of waysand levels.The program will continue

throughout the year and will be ex-panded to include other concepts,such as learning the “3Rs”: alongwith Reading, (w)Riting and(a)Rithmetic, students will be learnRespect, Responsibility, and RightDecisions. Messina continued, “And, the

best part about the program is thatthe students love it.”Maybe we could all learn a les-

son from this different kind ofschool.For more information on St.

Michael School, visitwww.stmichaelschoolct.com.

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St. Michael Kindergarteners caught doing good deeds, from left: JosephBasso, Katrina Shulda, Natale Gabriele, and Helen Godshall.

Photos submitted by Sandy Whewell


NewChoicesfor theNew Year

It’s a New Year! That means a new op-portunity to make new choices and dogreat things. A very long time agoJoshua, a great leader and warrior ofIsrael, led his people to the Prom-ised Land of Israel. Before entering

the land he spoke some wise words. Hesaid:

But if you refuse to serve the LORD,then choose today whom you will serve.Would you prefer the gods your ances-tors served beyond the Euphrates? Orwill it be the gods of the Amorites in

whose land you now live? But as for meand my family, we will serve the LORD.”Joshua 24:15.

Joshua knew that the people had seenGod defeat the Amorites. He knew theidols he mentioned were made up by menand could not help real people. It’s a NewYear and you have a choice to serve God orto put yourself first. Think of ways to serveGod. Here are some ideas:

• Pray every day

• Make good use of what God madeby saving on water and energy

• Help around the house

• Work hard at school to developthe talents God gave you

• Exercise every day to keep the bodyGod made healthy and strong

• Enjoy eating good foods that God cre-ated

• Thank God for all you have anddon’t beg for more stuff

• Compliment people

• Listen at mass to the Gospel,the words of Jesus’

• Help make family plans to do some-thing together at least once a month

• Don’t complain or argue,but obey you parents

Did youknow?January 6Three King’s Day

celebrates the wise menworshipping Jesus. Be wise

and follow Jesus!

January 9Baptism of Jesus wherethe three persons of theTrinity are together. Read

Matthew 3:13-17

January 16Religious Freedom Day.Celebrate the freedom toworship with reading the

Bible and listening to Chris-tian music.

January 29National Puzzle Day. Workon a puzzle as a family. Takeabout the mysteries aboutGod that puzzle you.

BaptismWord Search

On January 9th we celebrate when John the Baptist baptized Jesus in the JordanRiver. Find the words to do with Baptism in the puzzle. Use the uncircled lettersto spell out a message of what to do when someone is baptized.

Water Holy Spirit Repent ForgivenJohn Believer Jordan OilCandle Love Family of God

by Karen H Whiting


On 20 November, 2010,Pope Benedict XVI elevatedCardinal Elect, Raymond Leo

Cardinal Burke to the cardi-

nalate, along with 23 others, in-cluding, Archbishop DonaldWuerl of Washington. CardinalBurke is the current CardinalPrefect of the Supreme Tribunalof the Apostolic Signatura, hav-

ing previously served as Arch-bishop of St. Louis (2003–2008) and Bishop of La Crosse(1995–2003). The consistory, aformal meeting of the SacredCollege of Cardinals, took placein Vatican CityBishop Cote and Father

Michael Donohue, both class-mates of Cardinal Burke at thePontifical Gregorian Universityof Rome in the mid 1970’s,were on hand to share in thecelebration.At a Mass of Thanksgiving

held November 22, 2010 at thePontifical North American Col-lege in the Chapel of the Im-maculate Conception, CardinalBurke, in his homily, spoke ofSaint Cecilia, on her feast day.Said Cardinal Burke, “On herfeast day, we ask St. Cecilia topray for us, so that each of uswill remain steadfast in re-sponding to our vocation inlife, so that we will never fail toprovide oil for our lamps, sothat, each and every day, OurLord will find us waiting andready to welcome Him, withour lamps burning brightly. “ Speaking of the responsibility

and honor of becoming a Car-dinal, he continued, “The Car-dinal today is called, in a specialway, to assist the Successor ofSt. Peter, in handing on, in anunbroken line, what ChristHimself has given us in theChurch, His Eucharistic Sacri-fice, the font and highest ex-pression of the whole Christianlife.” Cardinal Burke will retain his

high office overseeing the TheSupreme Tribunal of the Apos-tolic Signatura, a judicial bodythat exercises final appellate ju-risdiction concerning conflictsoccurring between two or moreVatican Congregations or Di-casteries; appeals of administra-tive decisions rendered bydiocesan bishops and VaticanCongregations; and appeals ofjudgments and other decisionsissued by the Tribunal of theRoman Rota.

Bishop Cote Attends Consistory in RomeRecognizing Raymond Leo Cardinal Burke

By Michael Strammiello

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(Above) Former classmates Bishop Cote, Cardinal Burke andFather Donohue. (Right) e Holy Father, Pope BenedictXVI. Photos by Father Donahue

Each time the Earthquake Soli-darity Committee of the Daugh-ters of the Holy Spirit meets in

Santiago, the meeting begins witha prayer. They pray that the deci-sions they make regarding the dis-tribution of assistance to familiesin need will be a source of blessingto the families and the communi-ties in which they live. So, whilethe Committee focuses on rebuild-ing, they also try to ensure thateach project will communicatethat every person involved hasbeen, and is, loved by God.It’s not an easy task. Just outside of rural Palmilla,

Alicia and Fernando’s home wascompletely destroyed by the earth-quake. During their marriage, fifteen

children were born to Alicia andFernando. Two died as infants.One died of cancer as an adult. Ason was murdered by the son ofone of their neighbors. They founda way to forgive their neighbor’sson, so that their own childrenwould not be so filled with hatethat they would attempt to killhim in return. The couple owneda small parcel of land that theyrented out through a trustedfriend. Both illiterate, they signedthe paperwork they believed wasnecessary to allow their friend toadminister the land. After severalyears without rental payments,they asked their friend to returnthe land to their control. He re-fused. The paperwork they be-lieved was giving their trustedfriend the power to administer theproperty had actually been a deedto the property. Later, Fernandowas diagnosed with cancer. Hebegan a course of chemotherapy.

During the course of thechemotherapy, they discoveredthat he did not have cancer. How-ever, the chemotherapy had de-stroyed his kidneys. He nowreceives dialysis three days eachweek. No medical malpracticeaward was received by Fernando.Apparently malpractice claims bythe poor in Chile are largely ig-nored by the courts.Before beginning the rebuilding

project, Daughters of the HolySpirit Associates, Manolo andHaydee, met with local contractorsand builders. They prayed withthem and explained that the proj-ect was their opportunity to shareGod’s love with their neighbors,Alicia and Fernando. Whilemoney had been donated byfriends in the Diocese of Norwich,they also asked the contractors andworkers to donate extra time andmaterials. After all, they told them,if strangers who did not know Ali-cia and Fernando wanted to sharewith them, shouldn’t they, as fellowChileans and neighbors do thesame?Manolo, a native Mapuche

AmerIndian, drew up the plans forthe house. He included two extralarge bedrooms to accommodatethe children and grandchildrencoming to visit Alicia and Fer-nando. One son and his familyalso lived on the property in a“media agua” and would certainlyneed to move inside during thewinter. Manolo also planned extralarge doorways and hall ways to ac-commodate the wheelchair thatFernando will inevitably need. Theoriginal kitchen was left standingand was attached to the new homeso that Alicia did not need tochange her manner of preparingfamily meals. A handicapped ac-

cessible bathroom was added tothe house.The workers from around the

area contributed extra time andmaterials to the project. Manoloselected beautiful and practical in-terior ceramic tile for the floors.Alicia and Fernando selected thewall colors. When the house was

done, it was a work of love by allof those involved.Fernando admitted that for

many years he had held on to hisanger toward the person who hadstolen his property. It was like astone around his neck. When hesaw the love and care that had goneinto rebuilding his home, that

anger left him. He said he could nolonger be angry and he forgave hisformer friend for the betrayal.Fernando’s forgiveness of his

neighbor, challenged the workersand members of the EarthquakeSolidarity Committee to go and dolikewise. It was an answer to theirprayers.


Chile: Love & Care Arrive; Anger Forced to Leave

By Sally J. Tolles CONS. SEC., D.H.S.

From left to right: Senora Alicia, Homeowner; Sister Sally, DHS Secular Branch; Don Victor, Homeowner; Berta,DHA Secular Branch & Solidarity Committee Member; Mireilla, Resident of Palmilla & coworker on this project;Haydee, DHS Associate & Solidarity Committee Member; Germaine, DHS & Solidarity Committee Chair;Cristian, Resident of Palmilla & coworker on this project. Front: Martin, Grandchild of homeowners & Mauricio,sone of Mireilla. Photo supplied by Sister Sally Tolles

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