Suan Sonna is excited to announce that apologetics—the reasoned defense and explanation of the Catholic Faith—is coming to our parishes, schools, and communities here in the Diocese of Bridgeport. Under the guidance of Bishop Frank J. Caggiano and led by Director of Apologetics Suan Sonna, this new initiative will equip Catholics to know “what” we believe, “why” we believe it, and “how” to share the Truth with charity and clarity Introducing Apologetics….
A Vision Beyond “Defense”
While classical apologetics often focuses on defending doctrine against objections, our approach embeds that defense in a broader culture of intellectual formation—teaching habits of mind that foster openness to Truth rather than combative argumentation. We summarize our goals with the acronym F.I.R.E.:
- Fidelity to Christ and His Church, ensuring our arguments magnify Him, not ourselves
- Integrity in argumentation, representing opposing views fairly and honestly
- Rigor in research, grounding our talks in the best available scholarship
- Empathy toward every person, meeting questions with sensitivity in our polarized age Introducing Apologetics
By cultivating these virtues, we hope every Catholic in Fairfield County will grow in confidence and love for the Faith, ready to “give an account for the hope that is in you, with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).
What’s On Offer
Over the coming year, the Office of Apologetics will provide:
- Distinguished Speakers hosted diocesan-wide—authors and thinkers whose works you’ll read in our study groups
- Summer Intensive Retreats, day-long and weekend experiences that immerse participants in deep, prayerful exploration of core Catholic truths
- Coffee-Shop Conversations every Saturday morning—informal drop-ins for friendly Q&A
- Testimony Nights, where everyday Catholics share how their relationship with Christ has transformed their lives
- Mentorship Appointments by phone, Zoom, or in person—one-on-one time to explore any question you have
.For parishes, we’ll also offer:
- Request-a-Speaker and Request-a-Series services, bringing apologetics expertise directly to your community
- “Coffee & Donuts” Apologetics Sundays, post-Mass gatherings to learn and engage together
- Live Q&A Panels in each deanery hub (Danbury, Bridgeport, Stamford)
- Parish-led Apologetics Groups, with guidance on book selections, discussion formats, and event planning Introducing Apologetics
For high schoolers, we’ll provide:
- Curricular advice and classroom presentations to make Catholicism come alive for young minds
- Parent & Teacher Q&A Nights with refreshments and open dialogue
- Theology Bowls, fun quiz-team competitions to sharpen knowledge and foster friendly rivalry
- A Mentorship Program pairing juniors/seniors with young adult leaders
Join the Conversation
Apologetics isn’t about winning debates—it’s about inviting hearts to encounter Christ through clear teaching, honest dialogue, and compassionate accompaniment. Whether you’re a lifelong Catholic or simply curious about what we believe, there’s a place for you in this new diocesan effort.
➤ Visit bridgeportdiocese.org/apologetics to see our upcoming events, request a speaker, or schedule a one-on-one conversation.
Let’s grow in Faith together—ready always to explain the hope within us, and to fan into flame the intellectual virtues that draw us closer to Truth.
